Donna Richards Nielsen

1935 – 2014

Donna Richards Nielsen, age 79, returned to her Heavenly Father on October 3, 2014. We find peace knowing that she is reunited with her beloved parents, brothers and sisters.

Donna was born on June 24, 1935, to Dr.Guy S. and Roxie Adams Richards. She was raised and attended school in American Fork, Utah and later graduated from Brigham Young University, majoring in elementary education with a music emphasis. She found joy playing oboe with the BYU Symphony.

She took pride in teaching others. Throughout her life, she loved to share stories of her experiences teaching second graders. Donna spent many years sharing her love of music with piano students, which brought her happiness as she watched them progress.

Faithful service was an enjoyable part of Donna's life. She actively served in the LDS church, including callings in Primary, Young Women and Relief Society as well as organist and pianist. She helped many feel the Spirit through the reverence of her music.

Donna dedicated her life to her family. She married her eternal companion, LouDell, in the Salt Lake Temple on June 12, 1964. This year they proudly celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary together. Donna's greatest love was her husband, children and grandchildren. She put all of her heart in ensuring their happiness. Donna created the perfect environment to raise her family, spending countless hours creating and maintaining a beautiful home.

Donna is proud of her family: husband, LouDell; two sons, Craig (Mari) and Mark; one daughter, Julie (Cameron); 11 grandchildren and one great-grandson. She is survived by her sister, Lucille, and preceded in death by her mother and father; two brothers, Guy A. and Joseph; and sisters, Mildred and Shirley.

Family and friends may call Monday, October 6, 2014, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary, 4760 South State Street, Salt Lake City. Funeral services for Donna will be held on Tuesday, October 7, 2014, at the Winder Fourth Ward Building, 950 East 3825 South, Salt Lake City. A viewing will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, with services beginning at 11:00 AM. Interment: Holladay Memorial Park, 4900 South Memory Lane.

Funeral Home:
Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary-Murray
4760 So. State Street
Murray, UT 84107