1921 ~ 2004
Theora Elizabeth Pugmire Hammer was born June 5, 1921, in Midvale, Utah, to Justin Gerald and Clara Lzina Barker Pugmire. She quietly left us October 31, 2004, after having spent the day before with sweet visits from each of her devoted sons.
Theora found the love of her life at age 16, and married him September 4, 1937. They were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple in March 1956. There could never be any doubt about the love shared by these two sweethearts for 67 years. Their undying devotion to their marriage and each other has set the model and standard for their family. When Lloyd died in June, Theora's heart went with him. Her passing is softened with the knowledge that she has joined Lloyd.
Theora loved to be around good friends through Birthday, Sewing and Quilting Clubs. She and Lloyd also enjoyed any kind of dance, but most especially square dancing. They bowled together on a variety of bowling leagues. Theora was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her callings included working in the Primary, Mutual and Relief Society. Upon retirement, she and Lloyd served as full time missionaries in the California Ventura Mission, and continued their service for nine years as temple workers at the Jordan River Temple.
Theora served as manager of the original Spudnut Shop on State Street, worked at the SL Tennis Club, and managed the Golfer's Halfway House at the Salt Lake Country Club for over two decades. "Teddy" was loved by her customers.
Theora will be revered as a wife, mother and grandmother. Her delight in showing love through her cooking - sugar cookies, divinity, meatloaf or Teddy-burgers - was legendary. She was an avid sports enthusiast, which was a "plus" while raising four active boys. Her support at their games continued by attending her grandsons' "Hammer Strength" games regularly.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Gerald, Lavon and Farrell Pugmire; and her best friend and husband, Lloyd. She is survived by her brothers, Devearl and Glenn Pugmire, and her sister June Gale; her children, Ron (Judy) Hammer; Gordon (Beth Ann) Hammer; Doug (Karren) Hammer; and David (Linda) Hammer. She had 21 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Friday, November 5, at 12:00 noon, at the South Cottonwood 13th Ward, 5235 S. Wesley Rd (1120 E.). Friends may call Thursday, Nov. 4, from 6-8 p.m. at the Cottonwood Holladay Mortuary, 4670 S. Highland Dr.; and from 10:45-11:45 a.m. at the church prior to funeral services. The interment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. 10600 S. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Primary Children's Medical Center.