Leah Lafern Boyce Hilton

Leah Lafern Boyce Hilton was born on August 29, 1927, in Fort Union, Utah, to Perry and Lafern Boyce. She grew up with her four siblings: Charles, Richard, Marilyn, and Lynn, and graduated from Jordan High School.

 Leah married Vern G. Hilton, and together they were blessed with four children: Boyce, Charles J., Gaelynn, and Barbara. Although their marriage was later dissolved, Leah devoted herself to raising her children as a single mother, providing for them with love, strength, and unwavering care.

 Leah worked for over 30 years as a dental assistant for Dr. Richard G. Ellis, a career she cherished until her retirement.

 She found immense joy in the company of her grandchildren and was proud to be surrounded by five generations of family. Leah loved hosting barbecues and gatherings in her backyard, her personal haven filled with a beautiful garden and the stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. Her deck offered a peaceful retreat where she delighted in watching quail and hummingbirds nesting in her majestic pine tree.

 Leah had a passion for bowling, enjoying countless adventures with her bowling league. She was also a dedicated bridge player, sharing 55 years of camaraderie with the same neighborhood ladies and remaining the last original member of the group. A devoted member of her church, Leah treasured her faith and the friendships she built within her community.

 Leah lived a long and happy life, filled with love and cherished memories. She is survived by her daughters, Gaelynn (Mike) and Barbara Schlunz; her sisters, Marilyn Ovard (Douglas) and Lynn Cutler (Fred); 15 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

 She was preceded in death by her parents; her sons, Boyce Hilton and Charles J. Hilton; her brothers, Charles Boyce and Richard Boyce; and her grandson, Zachary J. Zimmerman.

 Services

A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cottonwood 3rd Ward, located at 6301 S. 2300 E., Holladay, Utah. Interment will follow at Memorial Mountain View Cemetery, 3115 E. 7800 S., Cottonwood Heights, Utah.

Leah’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and joy. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.