Reva Lou Jenson Merrill

Reva Lou Jenson Merrill, 92, passed away peacefully at her home in Nibley, Utah, on June 17, 2024, holding the hand of her devoted husband, Jed.

Born on November 5, 1931, in College Ward, Utah, Reva was a cherished daughter of I. Owen and Virgel E. Hansen Jenson. Growing up on the farm, she spent her youth alongside her beloved father, Owen, helping with various chores. Reva fondly remembered her father's praise. She often told the story of being left to water a field of potatoes as a young girl and how Owen would tell her, “I couldn’t have a hired man do a better job.” 

Reva and Jed were high school sweethearts, graduating from South Cache High in 1950. They married on September 1st of that same year in the Logan Temple. Both turned 19 in November, with Reva being eleven days older than Jed. Together, they were blessed with five children: four sons and one daughter. Their eldest, Jed Jr., was born in Amarillo, Texas, while Jed Sr. served in the Air Force, with their other children being born in Logan, Utah.

 A quintessential homemaker, Reva was skilled in sewing clothing, costumes, pajamas, quilts, and even draperies. She diligently canned bushels of tomatoes and peaches annually and cultivated a large garden filled with vegetables to feed her family. Renowned for her culinary prowess, Reva made every meal special, particularly excelling in grand holiday feasts. Her famous chocolates were known to show up at weddings, funerals or other functions and at Christmas, she delighted family and friends with an array of hand dipped chocolates.

 A faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Reva dedicated her life to serving in various callings, including as a temple ordinance worker and as Relief Society President during the era of ward building assessments. Reva's life was a testament to her love for family, faith, and service.

 Reva is survived by her husband of 73 years, Jed Merrill, and their children: Jed Jr. (Gaylene), Dave, Richard (Janette), Debbie (Paul) Anderson, and Jim (Laura). She is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and her sister Crystal (Dallas) Leishman. Reva was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Joyce Jenson, Wanda Clegg, and Cordell Jenson, along with many other cherished relatives.

 Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 22, at 12:00 p.m. at the College Ward Church, located at 2394 W 2200 S, College Ward, UT 84339. A viewing will precede the funeral from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at the same location.