Laura Joy Phelps

 Laura J. Taylor Phelps,  79, of Jerusalem, Utah, passed away peacefully at home on November 6, 2024, from pneumonia, surrounded by her loving family. Over the past decade, she was lovingly cared for by her devoted daughter, Millie, who remained steadfastly by her side, creating countless cherished memories together. She was born on October 17, 1945, in Mount Pleasant, Utah, to Wanda Morley Taylor and Earl Taylor.

 Laura grew up in a close-knit family with her two sisters, Terry Christensen and Lana Nunn. She married Hillary Lewis Phelps on June 19, 1963, and though they later divorced after 13 years, they remained good friends and loving co-parents. 

She is survived by her children, Lewis Earl Phelps (wife Jenny) and Millie W. Phelps Petersen, as well as her eight beloved grandchildren: Jodi Lu Petersen, Laura Barthel (husband Tyler Barthel), Jillian Bueller (husband Dustin Bueller), Summer Joy Phelps, Moriah Phelps, Carson Garcia, Anderson Garcia, and Jordan Bento. Laura was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. 

Education and Accomplishments: Laura was a vibrant and energetic student at North Sanpete High School, where she served as editor of the school newspaper, competed in speech meets at Snow College, and participated in cheerleading, the Pep Club, FHA (Future Homemakers of America), piano performances, and choir. Her classmates affectionately described her as a “spark plug” full of energy. 

Career and Community Service: Laura had a distinguished career at Utah Power & Light (later Pacific Corp), where she worked as a Customer Service and Community Development representative and an Estimator Planner. In 1990, she received the company’s Excellence in Community Service award for her dedication to serving others. 

After retiring from Utah Power, Laura worked at the Sinclair in Moroni, Utah, for eight years she worked for Sally Stapley. She loved making people smile and laugh and truly enjoyed her time there. The job brought her new friends and the chance to reconnect with old schoolmates and family members. 

As a member of the IBEW Local #57 for 25 years, Laura was a strong advocate for workers and their families. She was also a passionate volunteer, serving as a committee chair for United Way for 15 years.

 Political and Civic Engagement: Laura was deeply involved in politics, serving as an executive officer and vice chair of the Davis County Democratic Party. She was nominated to serve as a Utah State Delegate at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in Washington, D.C., in 1993. 

After moving to Jerusalem, Utah, to care for her mother, she became active in the Sanpete County Democrats. Her tireless efforts to revitalize the party earned her recognition and awards for her dedication and energy. 

Faith and Family: In 1997, while touring Israel with her son, Laura received Jesus Christ as her Savior at the empty tomb in Jerusalem—a moment that profoundly impacted her life. 

Laura’s life was marked by integrity, honesty, and a deep love for her family and friends. She was a gifted musician with a beautiful singing voice and exceptional piano talent. Her passion for politics, career, and community service was inspiring, but her greatest joy came from her family. She lovingly cared for her mother, Wanda Taylor, for 13 years, and her daughter Millie returned that devotion, spending the last decade by her side. 

Laura lit up every room she entered with her vivacious personality and genuine love for life. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. 

A Celebration of Life: A service to celebrate Laura’s incredible life will be held on January 18, 2025 from 11:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the Opera House (325 West Main,  Moroni, UT) there will be a program and light lunch. 

Rest in peace, Laura. Your legacy of love, laughter, and unrelenting energy will live on in the hearts of all who knew you.