Saralyn Nielson

Saralyn Nielson of Logan, Utah

Sara’s entire list of worldly deeds done can be written in one paragraph, but she journeyed epically, out of sight, into the depths and back—a gentle, peace-loving warrior of a traveler—bravely, softly choosing the light again and again while trying, and succeeding, in quiet defiance of her own struggles, to help in some small way her fellow travelers. November 13, 2024, due to unforeseen medical causes, the God she trusted took her home to the peace and light precious to her.  Her personal presence, space, and personality have left a deep void in our home and hearts.

Sara was born in Logan, Utah, November 29, 1987, to Lance and LuAnn Nielson.  Instead of trying to claw her way to the top as the youngest of a fierce brood, she smoothed the path for rest of the family. Not even her nearest brother could push her buttons, because she didn’t have any! As a child and into adulthood there was a childlike innocence in Sara that tugged at the heart.  She did her best to join Life, but she never got caught up in it.

After graduating from Logan High School in 2006, Sara earned money for and completed Massage Therapy School, then worked as a therapist for a short time. Later she finished an online course in medical transcription but never worked in that field as new technology took its place. From 2015-2017 she worked with Peer Project helping young adults with disabilities learn life skills, before her own health became a roadblock to working outside her family circle. Continuing her search for the light, she received her endowment in the Logan Temple in November 2016.

Sara is survived by her parents, a loved and loving Grandma, Luana Esplin, Preston, Idaho, and six siblings: Lauralyn (Norman) Aaron, Anna, TX; Reece (Donna) Nielson, Logan; Rebekah (Jonathan) Thornley, Layton, UT; Ben (Kyleigh) Nielson, Wellsville, UT; Christian (Maquel) Nielson, Hyrum, UT; and Bethany Nielson, Logan. She was preceded in death by a sister, Rachel Nielson.

Sara had especially close relationships with her parents and her sister Bethany. These three made up most of her world, and she had a tender heart for loving them. She loved her family and friends with all of herself. Although sometimes obscured by drizzling clouds, Sara was fun-loving sunshine. Picture her dancing in the twilight singing, “I’m Lynard, the Skynard, tonight, oh yeah”.  She was an original thinker, which showed most in her writing, starting young with “The True and Terrifying Tale of a Mother Sabertooth Tiger”.

If ever a mortal tried to tread lightly, asking for nothing but yearning to please, it was Sara. This gentle warrior would still sometimes ask her “Daddy” at the end of the day, “How did I do today?” Sara, our bling-wearing seeker of light, our lover of cats and ducks and the NFL, you’ve done well. You are truly strong, powerful, kind, and wise; we’re humbled and grateful to have traveled with you.  Journey on in sunshine.

A viewing will be held at the church building at 125 E. 500 N., Logan, UT, from 6:00 to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, November 20, followed by a short memorial service for the family and close friends. A graveside service will be held at the Logan Cemetery on Thursday, November 21, at 11:00 am.

The family sends heartfelt thanks to all those who have reached out in any way during this time of grief. Thank you to Cache Valley Mortuary for dealing with all the myriad details involved. And a special thanks goes to the Relief Societies of the Logan Ninth Ward and the Logan Single Adult Second Ward for the luncheon which will be served after the graveside service.

In lieu of sending flowers, please consider donating to assist the family with burial expenses
via GoFundMe as set up by Saralyn’s niece, Avonlea Richards, at https://gofund.me/0244d5fb .