Sammy Harward

Sammy Jane Harward, born on September 17, 1937, in Fillmore, Utah, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family. She was the cherished daughter of Ada Pearl Peterson and Reed Peterson and the eldest of four sisters: Sandra, Glenda, and Micky.

Sammy first met the love of her life, Joe Harward, while working together at Interstate Motor Lines. Despite differing shifts, they nurtured a relationship culminating in their marriage on August 14, 1959. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on April 12, 1968, for time and all eternity. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership.

Her sisters were not only her family but also her best friends. Being the eldest, she often took charge and cared deeply for Sandra, Glenda, and Micky. As they grew older, their bond only strengthened, and they remained a close-knit support system for each other. Sammy's love and dedication to her sisters were unwavering, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Over the last 20 years Sammy has lived with her daughter Jodi, both taking care of Joe until his last days. In the last few years of Sammy's life Jodi became her constant companion and caregiver, dedicating all her time and effort into loving and caring for her mom Sammy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ada Pearl Peterson and Reed Peterson, her beloved husband Joe Harward, and her sister Sandra Frampton. She is survived by her sisters Glenda (Jim) Walker and Micky Robinson, and her brother-in-law Kent Frampton. Her legacy continues through her daughters Jodi Harward, Cindy (Lee) Balmforth, Janet (Beau) Mahaffey, Sandee (Andy) Thorup, and Deann Harward White, as well as her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Sammy was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in various capacities including the Primary and as a Bishop's wife. She also served numerous years as a temple worker in the Jordan River Temple. The church was a blessing throughout her life and her callings and attendance brought her tremendous happiness. Being involved in the Primary brought her immense joy where she loved making handouts for the children and singing Primary songs with them. Of all the songs sung and principles learned, "I Am a Child of God" held an endearing place in her heart throughout her life.

Her membership and attendance in the church fostered a kinship and support system with those in her ward and the surrounding neighborhood. She could often be found spending time with and frequently talking to one of her closest friends Carol Henline or checking in on other members of the ward.

Known for an abundance of love and care, Sammy enjoyed cooking and often showed her love and concern with food and sweets. Arriving at her house on a Sunday afternoon would guarantee envelopment in the family gathering and dinner prepared to feed a veritable army. The memories of these times are intrinsically tied to her meals and treats, and her recipes will continue to feed and comfort her family going forward through her cookbook.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought tremendous joy and laughter to her life. She will be dearly missed by Calee (Dave) VanCott, Jennifer (Kevin) Whitmer, Bradley (Celeste) Thorup, Kelsee (Riley) Woods, Katee Balmforth, Tiffany (Jasper) Bowser, Colton Balmforth, Emily (Brandon) Garcia, Shylee (Alex) Russell, Adam (Macey) Thorup, Lydia Thorup, and her great-grandchildren Hayden Whitmer, Tanner Whitmer, Brayden VanCott, Jaxon Whitmer, Landon VanCott, Ayla Garcia, Beau Thorup, Avery Woods, Ruby Balmforth, Lexi Bowser, Luci Thorup, Charlie Woods, Asher Whitmer, Ryker White, Ezra Balmforth, Grant Thorup, Ensley Garcia, Hudson Bowser, Andrew Garcia, Theo Balmforth, Milo Balmforth, Andrew Thorup, Ellann Russell, Aspen Thorup, and Perry Woods.

Sammy was most often happy and maintained a positive outlook throughout her life. Her father made sure to take her and her sisters to church, which brought her an abiding happiness. Her five daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her greatest sources of happiness. As she got older, she realized that her family was what mattered most and brought her the greatest joy.

Spending time travelling with her family was an escape she particularly enjoyed. Whether it was flying to another state spending time in a unique location, visiting Disneyland, or simply spending time camping in a trailer, Sammy loved spending time in a new or different location. When this time away coincided with spending time amongst her children and extended family, the time travelling was frequently reminisced upon joyously.

Her legacy of service, faith, and love will continue to inspire her family. Sammy Harward will be remembered for her dedication to her faith, her family, her friends, and community, and for the positive impact she had on the lives of those around her.