Ellen Jackson Nygaard

Ellen Jackson Nygaard (January 25, 1933 - January 17, 2026) lived her entire life in the shadow of Mount Olympus, where she was born and raised as the youngest daughter of William and Jessie Jackson. She married Richard Nygaard on February 17, 1958, and together they built a home a block from where she grew up. That is where they raised five children, and served many others who passed through their household over the years.

Ellen worked in the insurance business for over 40 years, starting in her neighbor's home office—where her children would visit after school—and later continuing with his son until her retirement at age 82. She was loved and appreciated by all she worked with.

Ellen was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she served in many capacities including primary, young women, relief society, and a mission to Palmyra, New York, with Richard from 1996-97.

She loved bowling and bowled in women’s and mixed leagues as well as participated in the Senior Games in St. George many times. She continued bowling until she was 90 years old, winning many trophies over the years. In retirement, Ellen and Richard traveled throughout Utah and the country to horseshoe tournaments where she was a master scorekeeper.

The highlight of Ellen's life was her family. She loved giving gifts, and that may be why she kept working so long. As she aged, her recent memory faded, but some memories from her early life persisted. She cherished childhood memories of growing up on their farm on 39th South, working in Washington D.C. as a young woman, and living with her young family in Phoenix and on the San Carlos reservation in Arizona for a few years. She continued to recognize her children and grandchildren to the end.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, William and Jessie Jackson, and her siblings: Beth, Blaine, Bertha, Kenneth, Mary, and Darrell. She is survived by Richard, her husband of 67 years; her five children and their spouses: Martin and Louise Nygaard, Rosalie and Scott Bernhisel, Shelley and Garry Piiparinen, Kurt and Monika Nygaard, and Jackie and Heather Nygaard; 20 grandchildren: Ellen (Justin), Jay (Tabie), Anna (Ryan), Joseph (Auna), Ryan (Jordan), Trent (Shelby), Todd (Cindy), Teresa (Tyler), Anders (Meagan), Marie (Alex), Liisa (Garrett), Nils (Anna), Jessie, Erich, Rebecca (Kevin), Isaac (Larissa), Kristina, Gretchen (Kevin); Kaleb (Alejandra), Joshua (Jamie) and 29 great-grandchildren.

Special thanks to the dedicated team at Canyon Home Care and Hospice, and to Ellen's previous caregivers, whose kindness and professionalism brought comfort during her final days.

Ellen will be missed, but we know she is celebrating a joyful reunion with loved ones.

A memorial service celebrating Ellen's life will be held Saturday, January 24th at noon at the Valley View 1st Ward Chapel, 3820 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City. Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. preceding the service. A private family burial service will be held Friday, January 23rd at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park.