Obituary: Beth Papworth Summerhays

Beth Papworth Summerhays 1916~2006 Beth Papworth Summerhays passed away peacefully October 10, 2006. She was born on April 20, 1916 to Parley A. and Edna C. Papworth. She graduated from East High School and later from the University of Utah where she was a member of Pi Beta Phi sorority. Prior to graduating with a degree in business management, Beth was president of her sorority, president of the Pan Hellenic council, president of the Associated Women students and elected to Mortarboard, an organization which recognizes outstanding scholarship and student activities. After college, Beth worked for ZCMI in various functions including bridal consultant, managing and modeling in fashion shows, in advertising and radio work where she wrote many of the scripts. Beth married her beloved companion, Howard Bennion Summerhays on December 15, 1938 in the Salt Lake Temple. During World War II she supported her husband in his efforts as an FBI agent. Following the war, they returned to Salt Lake City where they raised their family and served the community. In addition to her excellent skills as a manager, Beth's greatest accomplishment was as a wife and mother. She loved her family and motivated them all to try to be their best. As a housewife, she excelled at cooking, sewing, home decorating and loving and encouraging her family. One of her favorite pastimes was playing golf. On May 17, 1991, Beth scored a hole in one at Willow Creek Country Club. In recent years she was a member of the Town Club where she enjoyed playing bridge and having lunch with her many friends. During the 1960's she served as a member of the Granite Board of Education including two terms as President. Beth then went on to serve for nine years as Director of Student Placement at the University of Utah where she helped implement a whole new placement program. Beth retired after having achieved everything she set out to do and more. During her tenure she stressed the importance of job seeking skills rather than just getting a job. As a result of her efforts, both the number of students using Placement Center services and the number of companies interviewing on campus increased dramatically. Beth was also president of the University of Utah Emeritus Alumni Association Board in 1991, and she received the Merit of Honor Award from the University of Utah in 1996. During their retirement, Beth and Howard also enjoyed traveling around the world. They loved to spend winters in Coronado, CA. Most of all, Beth loved her family and all of the singing, laughing and good times they had together at home and on family vacations. Beth is survived by her daughter Diane (Barrie Strachan), son Roger (Gayle), four grandchildren Renee (Wes Ellis), Jason, Michelle and Ryan Summerhays. Preceded in death by her parents and brothers Alton and Clive, her loving husband Howard, and her infant son, Howard Jr. The family wishes to thank Arbor Care for the support given over the last year with special thanks to Barbara Good and caregivers Rosalinda Padilla, Cynthia Whitlock, and Maria Franco. The family is also grateful to Caresource Hospice Home Health Care and hospice nurse Yolanda Tan for their sensitive attention. Memorial services will be held Monday, October 23, 2006 at noon in the Rodeo Lane LDS Chapel (6350 South Rodeo Lane - approximately 1450 East). Visitation will be one hour prior to funeral services. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.