Donette Fergus Southard

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The world lost a shining light when beloved Mom, Grandmother (Grandma Sweetheart or Dee Dee), Sister, Aunt and Dear Friend, Donette Southard (92) passed away on September 3rd at the home of her daughter in Garden City, Utah.

She was born in Logan, Utah to Russell Thomas and Edna Yonk Fergus and had four siblings, Elaine (Victor) Jensen, Dean (Elaine), Lynn (Judy), Nolan (Norma).

Donette graduated from Logan High School in 1950 where she was active in Student Government and ROTC. She remained close with many of her classmates and cherished these friendships with “The Kids” throughout her life. These lifelong friendships were especially important as years went on and not many a day went by that phone calls or emails were not shared between them.

She married David Miles in 1950 and they divorced in 1982. Together they had five children: Craig (Deceased) (Barbara), Paulette (Deceased) (Chris) Mortensen, Jon (Deceased) (Debra), Jeanne (Tony) Hutson and Deann (Gordon) Williams.

In 1986 she married Alvin Reid Southard. They recognized each other as kindred souls who shared the same love of family, friends and sense of humor which led to many wonderful experiences and a lot of laughter. They were inseparable for the next 31 years until Al’s passing in 2018, cherishing every minute and adventure they shared, traveling to places Donette never imagined she would see. 

Al brought 4 children into the family who also added cherished grand and great grandchildren as well: David (Angelika)(Deceased), Paula (Barry) Wheeler, Dena (Scott) Berglund and Randel (Susan).

Donette was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, holding many positions throughout her life.

She loved her children and every one of her grandchildren and great grandchildren unconditionally. Donette had a huge heart and made it her mission to stay in contact with those she cared about and make sure they knew they were loved. She was a great cook and loved family gatherings. She was an excellent piano player, loved music, old movies, the Hallmark Channel, Bluebird Chocolates and an occasional ice-cold Coca Cola.

Donette is survived by her daughters Jeanne (Tony) Hutson, Deann (Gordon) Williams, brother Nolan (Norma) Fergus, 21 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. She also leaves behind her very special friend Susan Wilson who brightened her days with her kind heart and companionship.

The family would like to thank Atlas Hospice, especially Kylie and Katelyn for their kindness and loving care for Mom over the past few weeks.

Services will be held Saturday, September 14th at Nelson Funeral Home, 162 East 400 North, Logan, Utah. Public visitation begins at 11:00 am with services to follow at 12:30.

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