Elna Stubbs Obituary
Published by Legacy on Oct. 4, 2025.
Elna Halterman Stubbs was born April 1, 1929 in Parowan, Utah, the second of five children of Arvilla Dalton and Clifton Halterman. Her parents instilled in her honesty, a powerful work ethic, gratitude for all she had, and a tender heart for that one person who needed a friend.
She graduated from Parowan High School and received a music scholarship to attend Branch Agricultural College (BAC), now SUU. She recalls such fun times during her college experience as she was involved in social events, orchestra and choir. She was a straight A student--as smart and sweet as she was beautiful.
Elna was very talented musically. She attributes her early love for music to her 3rd grade teacher, Doris Tobler, who taught her class to sing harmony. Elna sang in a trio for 20 years with two of her lifetime friends, Ramona Stubbs and Shirley Evans, with Itha Mortensen as accompanist. They had a wonderful time practicing and performing at wedding receptions, funerals, and community events. They even cut a record which was played on the local radio station. Elna also brought comfort to countless families who requested her to play a violin solo at their loved one's funeral services.
Elna and Howard Stubbs became acquainted in high school. He impressed her by waiting after school to walk her home and carry her violin case. They remained friends while he spent time in Japan after the occupation, then upon his return the spark was ignited. They dated and were married, on June 12, 1948. They were sealed to each other and their four children, Cheryl, Craig, Jolene, and Janeal, in the St. George Temple on February 6, 1965.
Elna was committed to her church, serving as ward Relief Society President, Stake Relief Society Counselor, Singing Mother's chorister, Primary and Mutual chorister, and a devoted visiting teacher for 50 years. Being a part of the Parowan Literary Club for 16 years was also a very rewarding part of her life. She developed close relationship with people of all ages as she served in her church and community. She always said that her mother's and grandmother's friends became some of her best friends.
She was a gifted seamstress. She sewed most of her daughter's clothes, including prom and wedding dresses. Her valuable sewing talent launched her into her own business career, making beautiful draperies, which she steadfastly pursued for 40 years. She also loved to crochet and quilt. She won many grand champion ribbons at
the Iron County Fair for her handwork. She admits that she did have to re-do many stitches while watching Jazz games when John Stockton and Karl Malone were playing.
Howard and Elna loved what they called their little "Island in the Sky" at Dry Lakes. Many years of enjoyment were spent driving to their trailer which they parked there every summer. They roamed the hills, enjoying beautiful wildflowers and watching the deer. Their family has many fond memories of outings in the mountains with Grandma and Grandpa, especially in the fall --Grandma cooking a tasty dinner in the trailer while Grandpa chopped and loaded wood onto the truck. She always enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, leaving endearing memories.
On October 1, 2025, Elna passed away peacefully, attended by the family she loved, and who deeply loved her.
Elna is survived by her children, Cheryl Lynn (Blaine) Johnson, Jolene (Eugene) Dalley, Janeal (Marvin) Magalei; 13 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by husband, Howard LeFevre Stubbs; parents, Arvilla Dalton and Clifton Halterman; sisters, Aleen Orton, Merna Mitchell; brothers, Dee Halterman, Merrell Halterman; son, Craig Stubbs; grandson, Seth Johnson.
The family would like to thank Three Peaks Care Center and Zion's Way Hospice for the kindness and compassion they showed our mother and grandmother during the time she was in their care.
A viewing will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025 in the Relief Society room at the LDS chapel in Parowan, Utah (59 S 100 W) from 9:30-10:30 AM. Funeral services will follow in the chapel at 11:00 AM. To view the livestream of the service and share condolences, please visit www.mortuary.org.
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