Jennifer Relph Obituary
Jennifer Ann "Annie" Rowley Relph
1977 ~ 2024
Our precious Annie (Jennifer Ann Rowley Relph), has gone to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Annie accepted Christ as her Savior at the age of 9, and would want the gospel to be given. John 3:16: For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believed in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
On February 6, 2024, she was taken from us in a tragic automobile accident.
Annie was born on December 12, 1977 in Rock Springs, Wyoming. Annie attended high school in Green River, Wyoming, and would come to Moab for the summers to stay with her Aunt Diane and Uncle Bob (Norman). She and her cousins made many memories during those times, many of which were centered around the water park, where she was a lifeguard for several years. Annie loved being outdoors, swimming, hiking, riding the Razors, picnicking and just having a good time.
Annie was a consummate optimist and always made sure to tell people that she loved them. Her four children were her pride and joy, and she gracefully balanced a career and motherhood, often working odd hours so that she didn't miss her children's many activities and sports. She was honest and a genuine role model, because she spoke her truth with love and sincerity. Annie was an incredible daughter, and had plans to build on her mom's property so that they could remain close and she could help take care of her. She had a deep and close relationship with her siblings, and she was their rock, who they called for anything and everything- Annie would always know what to do. She could be counted on to say, "The more the merrier!" and she made EVERYTHING more fun. She didn't hold a grudge, and would often remind people that they, "Could get glad in the same pants they got mad in."
Annie was an incredible nurse. She received a Bachelor of Science from Utah State University and her Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Management from Western Governors University. Her compassionate, patient, and grounded personality was perfectly suited for the hectic environment of the Emergency Department. Annie was named Utah Emergency Nurse of the Year in 2019 and was honored in true Moab form- a firetruck ride through town with sirens wailing!
Annie worked at Moab Regional Hospital in several departments eventually becoming the manager of the Emergency Department and trauma program. She became the Director of Nursing in 2019, and she was a pivotal leader during the Covid-19 pandemic, where her problem solving and organization were crucial during the many months the hospital spent in incident command. Annie loved her work and the people she worked with, taking pride in the leadership role.
When Annie would find a white feather, she believed it was a sign that her guardian angel was close to her. When you find a white feather, know that Annie is watching over you, providing the same protection, peace and encouragement in Heaven as she did on Earth. Her legacy of love will endure.
Annie is survived by her children, Neelie, Mekker, Ledger and Brux Relph, and their father, Josh Relph, her mother, Wendy Rowley, and father, Randy Rowley, her sister Brittany (Patrick) Simpson, her brother Sam Rowley, nieces Sawyer and Sloan Simpson, Aunt Diane (Norman) Mack and Dick Mack, cousins Kim Norman, Robert and Chara Norman, Eric and Jenya Norman, Ike, Will and Meraiah, and In-laws, Rich and Sharon Relph.
Annie's memorial service will take place at the Grand County Middle School gym on March 3, 2024 at 5:15pm with a reception to follow. Please wear green (Annie's Favorite color) or any color that you love.
Published by Moab Times-Independent from Feb. 26 to Feb. 29, 2024.