Leila Nielson

December 23, 1930 – November 10, 2024

Holladay, UT-Leila Ruth Allred was born on December 23, 1930, to Royal and Elva Allred in a log cabin in Spring City, Utah, the only daughter among three older brothers. She loved growing up in Sanpete County and believed for the rest of her life that the most wonderful people came from there. She had a knack for connecting with fellow Sanpete natives wherever she went.

Leila Ruth’s early years were filled with horseback riding and a love of acting. At Snow College, she became a cheerleader and the leading lady in several plays. After college, she moved to Salt Lake City and worked for the telephone company. Fatefully, one night at a Hire’s Root Beer stand, she reconnected with Jerry Nielson, an old acquaintance from Sanpete County who was on leave from the Navy. After a long-distance romance, they were married in the Manti Temple on October 22, 1954. Jerry, a skilled carpenter, built their home on Honeycut Road in Salt Lake City, where they lived for 60 years and raised their three children: Camille, Eric, and Gretchen.

Their home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and friends. Whether hosting bridge games with Navy friends of 60 years, her Literary Guild of 50 years, or their Study Group that continues after 60 years, Leila Ruth created deep, lifelong connections. Mom had a warm spirit. Everyone who entered her home felt her “I love you spirit”. Her hospitality and warmth encircled individuals and echoed throughout her home. Charity never faileth. Charity never failed our mother. She radiated love, hope, and goodness. She was a wonderful cook who shared cherished recipes for desserts like lemon bars and caramel popcorn balls and always had Tab or Diet Coke for her guests. As a self-proclaimed chocoholic, she delighted visitors with her stash of chocolate. She had considerable charm and style and was often the best-dressed woman at a party. She could be feisty. Try picking on one of her children and see what happens; you will discover a different side of Leila Ruth Nielson. After setting the record straight, she embraced you with hugs and love.

She was a devoted mother to her own children and many others who considered her a second mother. She lived a life of quiet service, whether working with girls at a Detention Center, serving as a Primary, Relief Society or Young Women’s President, or volunteering at nursing homes, Temple Square, and the Joseph Smith Building.

Leila Ruth’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and unwavering service to her family, faith, and community. Her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched.

Every once in a while, a person comes along who radiates love and goodness. Our Mom is one of those rare people. She is with Dad now. They are together after a seven-year separation. Dad always said that meeting Mom was the best thing that ever happened to him. He meant it. How fun and joyous that reunion must be!

The family extends deep gratitude to all the devoted caregivers who supported Leila during her long battle with Alzheimer’s, particularly Palaitisita (Lani) Langi and Brooks Jones, Abby Nielson, and Saydie Young for their patient and loving care.

A viewing will be held at the Valley View 10th Ward Chapel 3900 South 2300 East on Friday, December 6, 6:00 -8:00 pm.

A viewing and family prayer will be held on Saturday, December 7, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, with a funeral at 2:00-3:00 pm at the same chapel. Interment at Wasatch Lawn Cemetery.

Online Condolences and Memories may be shared at DaltonHoopes.com 435-884-3031