Julia Delightra Andelin Butler Banks transitioned peacefully at the Heritage Hills nursing home Sunday, Nov. 3, 2013, in Nephi, Utah, from causes incident to her age.

She was born Sept. 6, 1926, in Idaho Falls to Aubrey and Gladys Andelin. She is a graduate of Ricks College, BYU and received a master's degree from the University of Utah.

She married Jay Butler of Shelley in 1948, had four children together and divorced in 1965. Julia was a social worker for the State of Idaho for most of her professional career, including three years as a college teacher at State University of New York in Geneseo, N.Y.

After returning to Idaho, she met Gayle Banks, who she married in 1971. She retired from her professional life in 1991. She and her husband relocated to Nephi, from where they served an LDS mission in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Julia has touched the lives of many people over the years with her kindness and charitable acts. She composed many original songs and played piano by ear. She was a student and advocate for nutrition and living a healthy lifestyle in body and mind, and lived what she believed.

She was a lifelong student and volunteer in church and civic life. She was well-read and always engaged to make a difference. She went around doing good and brightened the day of each person she came in contact with. Her greatest joy was her family.

Julia was preceded in death by her husband, Gayle Banks; daughter, Joycel Parson; granddaughter, Chancy Parson; son-in-law, Dr. Russell Banks; and grandsons, Levi Butler and Nathan Grundvig.

Julia is survived by her children, Gladel (John) McCarthy, Delightra (Kelly) Nielsen, stepdaughter Judy Garrett, Khaldun (Karoline) Butler, and deceased daughter Joycel's husband Del (Lynette) Parson; their many children and grandchildren; and her sister, Sannette Judy.

The family expresses sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff and residents at Heritage Hills Rehabilitation and Care Center for their wonderful care and friendship to our mother while she was there.

A viewing will be held from 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, followed by a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. at the Nephi North Stake Center, 1125 N. 400 East in Nephi, Utah. Graveside services will be at Nephi Vine Bluff Cemetery, across the street from the church, following the celebration of Julia's life. Arrangements are under the care of Anderson Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.andersonfh1866.com.



Published in Post Register on Nov. 6, 2013