Evelyn Parry Nielson

Evelyn Parry Nielson (age 86), our beloved and beautiful daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona.
Evelyn was born on November 22, 1938, to Samuel Franklin Parry and Helen Anderson Parry. She was raised in Manti, Utah, with her sister, Pauline. She was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had a strong and enduring testimony of the Savior, Jesus Christ. Evelyn served in many church callings and loved every opportunity to serve. She especially loved callings that allowed her to share her musical talents. Evelyn had a beautiful alto singing voice and shared it whenever possible, including as a member of the Tabernacle Choir.
She grew up in Manti, Utah, surrounded by family who loved her dearly and developed many lasting friendships. In 1955, her family moved to Monticello, Utah, where she made many more friendships and graduated from high school. In 1957, she attended Brigham Young University in Provo, where she majored in Physical Education and Dance. While there, she also met Alan Nielson, the love of her life.
Evelyn and Alan were married on October 20, 1961, in the Manti Temple, where they were sealed for time and all eternity. Together they raised four children: Craig, Danalee, Patricia, and Curtis. Family was central to Evelyn's life, and she found great joy in raising her children and establishing a home centered on Jesus Christ.
Professionally, Evelyn worked as an educator, initially teaching physical education and English at Pleasant Grove High School. After moving with her family to Farmington, New Mexico, she taught elementary music. Later, when her family moved to Mesa, Arizona, she continued teaching and inspiring countless students-including her own children-to love music.
After 27 years, she retired and enjoyed serving in the Mesa Temple for more than 11 years. She also faithfully served two missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with her sweetheart, Alan. Their first mission took them to Adam-ondi-Ahman, where they served for 18 months caring for that sacred ground. Their second mission centered on family history work in Salt Lake City. During both missions, they made lifelong and cherished friendships.
Evelyn is survived by her loving husband, Alan Nielson; her children, Craig (Tina) Nielson, Danalee (Daniel) Beckert, Patricia (Pete) Peterson, and Curtis (Janene) Nielson; 24 grandchildren; and 44 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 10 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 10305 East Southern Avenue, Mesa, Arizona 85208. A viewing will be held at the same location on Thursday, August 28, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. An additional viewing will be held from 9:00 to 9:40 a.m. on Friday, prior to the funeral service. Interment will follow at the Mesa Cemetery.
The family wishes to express gratitude for the love and support of friends, loved ones, and ward members during this tender time.
Most of all, Evelyn leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and dedication to family that will continue to bless generations.
Arrangements by Bunker's Garden Chapel, . Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.