Elgarda Zobell Ashliman died August 6, 2004, in Saint George, Utah, of causes brought about by age. Born Aug. 18, 1915, on a farm near Rigby, Elgarda Zobell graduated from Rigby High School in 1933, studied two quarters at Utah State Agricultural College (now Utah State University) in Logan, Utah, lived briefly in California, then moved to Idaho Falls where she met her future husband Laurn Earl Ashliman (1905-1995). In 1938 they moved to Rexburg, where together they established the Ashliman Shoe Store, which became a landmark on Main Street until destroyed by the Teton Flood in 1976. Born with an inquisitive mind and keen intellect, Elgarda always excelled at school. In her middle years she returned to the college work that had been interrupted during the depression, graduating with honors from USU in 1967 at the age of 51. A successful 15-year career of teaching elementary school and administering the gifted and talented program in Madison County followed. Elgarda was a faithful member of the LDS Church, and its principles guided her throughout her life. She was never happier than when serving others in everyday activities as well as within various church callings, which included teaching in the Young Women's organization and serving as Relief Society president at the ward and stake levels. She was also active in civic organizations, including the Parent Teachers Association, the Rexburg Civic Club and the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. Elgarda's last six years were spent at the Lincoln Court retirement home in Idaho Falls, and here, too, she continued to serve others and take an active leadership role. Her fellow residents elected her Mrs. Lincoln Court, and at the time of her death she was president of the resident council. For all her professional, church, and civic activities, Elgarda never neglected her family, always supporting her husband and giving the best possible foundation for future happiness and success to her four children: Dee (who married Patricia Taylor) of St. George, Utah; Sue (who married Dean Welker) of Idaho Falls; Jean (who married Ron Rock) of Boise; and Lorna (who married Randy Smith) of Rexburg. In addition to her four children, Elgarda is survived by a brother, Henry Zobell of Bountiful, Utah, 17 grandchildren, and 44 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, two brothers and her husband. Funeral services held Thursday, Aug. 12, at Wood East Side Chapel, 963 South Ammon Road. Burial will be in the Rigby-Pioneer Cemetery.
Obituary published in the Rexburg Standard Journal, Tuesday, August 10, 2004.