Rayola Hodgkinson Andersen Obituary (1927 - 2016)

A Passion for Family, Nursing, Education, and Service Murray, UT-Rayola Hodgkinson Andersen, 89, went beyond this earthly veil on September 19, 2016 to reunite with her husband, parents, siblings and dear friends. She endured to the end being subjected to dementia, several surgeries, and finally—complications from shingles. Rayola was born in Vernal (as a country bumpkin) and relocated to Murray in her early teens where she commenced a lifelong career in nursing. Her joy and passion never diminished in this field. She was continually being recognized for personal outstanding achievements. She received numerous prestigious awards honoring her dedication and excellence for improving her professional organization. Her nursing career included: 18 years at LDS Hospital, advancing to Director of Nursing; 20 years as a teacher at the College of Nursing for BYU; 18 years as a hospice nurse for terminally-ill patients. She was the first independent Nurse Practitioner in the state of Utah with an office to practice nursing. Throughout her life, Rayola traveled the world with her husband, siblings, and grandchildren. She served three missions for the LDS Church to Norway, Magna, and Australia. After retiring, she went on several humanitarian excursions, taking her to China, Africa, Mexico, and an Indian reservation. In her spare time, Rayola loved: gardening, fishing, raising fowls, her 16 grandchildren, her 12 great-grandchildren, plus twins due in the New Year. Widowed over 45 years ago, she is survived by her four natural children: Karla Andersen, Katherine (Bud) Sadler, Klarise (Mark) Richmond, and Kail (Linda)Andersen, and her two Navajo children: LaVale Footracer and Adam Swofford. Viewings will be held on Sunday, September 25, 2016 from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. and Monday, September 26, 2016 from 11:00 – 11:45 A.M. at Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary in Murray (4760 South State Street). Graveside services will commence at noon, Monday, September 26, 2016 at the Murray City Cemetery (5600 South Vine Street). A Celebration of Rayola's Life where family and friends can share farewells and memories will follow services. In lieu of sending flowers, please send donations to a nursing school, a hospice provider, or The Sharing Place (a children's grief center). We are so grateful for all the support, friendship and loving concern shown to our Mom. Online condolences may be shared at www.jenkins-soffe.com. Funeral Home: Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary-Murray 4760 South State Street Murray, UT