Afton C. Ralphs

1924 - 2026

Afton C. Olson Ralphs, 101, peacefully returned to her heavenly home on February 23, 2026. She lived a long life filled with health, happiness, and devoted service to those she loved.

She was born on October 25, 1924, in the family home in Oxford, Idaho, to Clara Hatch Olson and Ernest Olson. She grew up in Oxford alongside her six brothers and one sister: Wesley Ernest, Eldred Walter, Marion, Alfred, Lorrin, Norman, and Wanda Cox. She attended Oxford Grade School and later Downey High School. She often spoke fondly of the time spent working with her siblings at the Oxford Garage and the Candy Kitchen, businesses owned and operated by her father.

After graduating from Downey High School in 1942, Afton worked in Preston, Idaho, where she met the love of her life, Dale Dean Ralphs, at a baseball game. They were married by her father on May 24, 1943. The couple made their home in Clifton, Idaho, in the home where Harold B. Lee had grown up. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple on August 30, 1944.

That same year, Dale was drafted into the United States Army during World War II. When he returned home in 1946, they resumed their life together in Clifton and began farming. There they were blessed with two children, Dixie and Alan. Afton had always dreamed of being a mother. She adored her children, and teaching and caring for them brought her great joy.

Afton was known for her strong work ethic. She worked tirelessly in the home and on the farm. She enjoyed sewing, embroidering, crocheting, and especially quilting for others. Many were recipients of her handmade quilts, each one a reflection of her love and generosity. She also had a deep appreciation for photographs and spent many hours scrapbooking, preserving cherished family memories. She was a faithful and active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she served in many callings and formed lifelong friendships.

Afton's 101 years were truly spent in service. She was a trusted friend and confidant to many. To her family, she was everything-a devoted mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She celebrated their successes, supported them through their struggles, and shared her love freely through warm meals, heartfelt conversations, handmade quilts, and welcoming hugs.

She is survived by her son, Alan Dale (Laurie) Ralphs of Layton, Utah; her grandchildren, Tenaya (Chad) Bessinger, Gregrey Alan (Tiffany) Ralphs, Jaimie Lynn Jardine, and Shanae (Thomas) Gerard; 16 great-grandchildren; and her sister, Wanda Cox of Oxford, Idaho.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dale Dean Ralphs; her daughter, Dixie Ralphs; her daughter-in-law, Jacquelynn Robins Ralphs; her grandson-in-law, Jonathan Jardine; her six brothers; her parents; and many cherished family members and friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends and family members who lovingly supported Afton and helped her remain in the home she cherished for so many years. They are also deeply grateful to the compassionate staff at Heritage Senior Living Facility and Symbii Hospice, as well as to Kara Crozier and Thelma Roly, for the tender care, kindness, and dignity they showed her.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 in the Oxford Ward Meetinghouse. Interment was in the Clifton Idaho Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at webbmortuary.com.