Myra Hansen

Our cherished Myra Bell Ullman Hansen passed away peacefully at home on November 26, 2018.

The world became a happier place December 19, 1946 when Myra was born into the loving home of Millard Ansel Ullman and Grace Irene Tolbert Ullman. Myra enjoyed the small town life of her childhood in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. She took pride in the historical significance of the countryside and her ability to recite the full tour of Gettysburg.

After graduating from Waynesboro High, Myra headed west to attend Utah State University, where she earned a degree in Social Work with a minor in Recreational Activities. Born a natural leader, Myra served two terms as the Sigma Kappa Sorority President.

Acknowledging their special relationship, Edwin L. Hansen and Myra were married on September 13, 1969 and became one in heart and deed. They exemplified a marriage of selfless love, service, humor and loyalty. Devoting time to family and their testimonies of Jesus Christ were of utmost importance to them.

Early in Myra's career she served as Director of Neighborhood House, where she was instrumental in the creation of the adult day care. Myra attributed much of the family's successes to those early years at Neighborhood House. Later in life she was honored to contribute as the President of the board. Maintaining her lifelong advocacy for children, she left her mark as Director of Holladay Preschool.

Her philanthropic heart combined with her sound understanding of policy and procedures led her to many leadership opportunities. She served as President of the Junior League of Salt Lake City. Eager to continue learning, Myra treasured her association with the University of Utah, including the Educational Resource Development Council and the Board of the College of Social Work. Town Club held a special place in her heart. She was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in numerous capacities.

To know Myra is to love her. Myra's unconditional love reached the hearts of all that knew her. Her confidential listening ear, words of encouragement and cheerful demeanor drew others near. Consistently, she left people better off and believing in themselves. She was a ray of hope, as she defied odds and courageously defeated cancer twice, a true medical miracle. Her diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease proved she is one in a million.

Myra's eternal companion, Ed, precedes her in death. She is survived by her children and grandchildren, of whom she was incredibly proud and involved: children Michael U. Hansen (Allison) and Gina Hansen Larson (Scott) and grandchildren Sophie A. and Millie U. Hansen and Ririe Scott, Ansel Edwin and Bell Hope Larson. She is also preceded in death by her parents and sisters Shirley Painter (Thomas) and Nancy Harman.

Funeral services will be held at Valley View LDS 10th Ward building Wednesday, December 5 at noon. The family will receive visitors at the ward house Tuesday evening from 7-9 p.m. and Wednesday from 10-11:30 am. In honor of Myra, find opportunities to unconditionally love and listen. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to The Neighborhood House.