Leslie Gay Ovard

Leslie Gay (Park) Ovard, 61, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, in Warm River, Idaho.

She was born on November 4, 1964, in Ririe, Idaho, to David Gary Park and Cheryl Ann Byington Park. Leslie lived a life rich in learning, creativity, and love.

After fighting valiantly for years, she has now won her battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and is free of its hold, home in heaven and whole again. In her final act of generosity, Leslie donated her brain to medical research to help further understanding of this rare disease and bring hope to others.

She was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Leslie's faith was a guiding light throughout her life. She embraced her many roles with grace and dedication: loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, big sister, and friend. Her warmth and compassion touched all who knew her.

Leslie pursued education with passion and purpose. As a lifelong learner, she earned an undergraduate degree in English and went on to complete two master's degrees; one in English and another in Environmental Science. Her academic achievements reflected her deep curiosity and commitment to understanding the world around her. She shared this love of learning with others as both a student and a teacher.

Creativity flowed through every aspect of Leslie's life. She was an artist, author, poet, editor, florist, and seamstress; bringing beauty into the fabric of everyday life. Whether designing costumes for her children or arranging flowers, Leslie infused each endeavor with care and imagination. She was an adventurer at heart and an avid traveler who found wonder in every corner of the world she explored.

Leslie had a remarkable ability to make those around her feel seen and loved. Known for her kindness, patience, humor, and generosity, she was naturally beautiful inside and out. Her determination and hard work were matched only by her gentle spirit. She could even recite the alphabet backward, a small but memorable testament to her playful nature.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Kelly Ray Ovard; daughters, Shara Ovard of Idaho Falls, Idaho; Whitney Mason of Twin Falls, Idaho; Erica LeBaron of Mesa, Arizona; and Katelyn (Jared) Daniels of Williston, North Dakota; as well as twelve cherished grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life. Leslie is also survived by her mother, Cheryl Ann Park; and siblings, Kandance (Paul) Legere; Melissa (Greg) Johnson; Rachelle (Russ) Pearson; Greg (Becky) Park; Jeff (Marina) Park; and Wendy (Noal) Fisher.

She was preceded in death by her father, David Gary Park.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the Idaho Falls Central Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2025 Jennie Lee Dr., Idaho Falls, Idaho 83404. Friends and family are invited to attend a viewing from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, at Wood Funeral Home, 273 North Ridge Avenue and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. prior to services at the church. A family luncheon will follow.

Private family graveside services will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

Leslie's legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her love, wisdom, creativity, and unwavering faith. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.