Lyla Ferguson Godfrey

LYLA M. GODFREY IDAHO FALLS, ID -- Lyla Marr Ferguson Godfrey, 69, of Idaho Falls, passed away August 12, 2006 at her home of cancer. She was under the care of Aspen Home Health & Hospice. She was born May 13, 1937, in Macon, North Carolina, to Samuel C. Ferguson and Mary Gertrude Dillard Ferguson. She grew up in Andrews, North Carolina, and graduated from Andrews High School. She also lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Kauai, Hawaii, and Salt Lake City, Utah, yet made her home in Idaho Falls. She married Merlin Keith Godfrey April 12, 1963, in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. She was a homemaker and mother until age 50, when she returned to school and received her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Pacific Western University. She then taught 4th and 5th grades at Tiebreaker Elementary School until her retirement in 2005. An active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served as Relief Society President, Sunday School Teacher, Ward Missionary, and in various other callings over the years. She had a passion for poetry, children, and teaching. Lyla started a Youth Writer's Club at her school and helped children submit their poetry for publishing in Young Authors books. Survivors include: Husband: Keith Godfrey, Idaho Falls, ID Daughter: Kelly Godfrey, Waddell, AZ Son: Daniel Godfrey, Idaho Falls, ID Son: Matthew (Anna) Godfrey, Waddell, AZ Daughter: Kristin (David) Nielsen, Idaho Falls, ID Brother: Bob (Linda) Ferguson Brother: Larry (Debbie) Ferguson Brother: Sam Ferguson, Jr. Sister: Wanda (Jan) Salden Sister: Ann (Steve) Henrie Sister: Caroline (Jerry) Percival 8 Grandchildren She was preceded in death by her parents, Sam & Mary Ferguson, and an infant sister, Minnie Jane Ferguson. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, August 17, 2006, at the Idaho Falls LDS Eagle Rock Stake Center, 2020 Charlotte Drive, with Bishop Anthony Passino of the Pioneer Ward officiating. The family will visit with friends Wednesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge, and for one hour prior to the services Thursday at the church. Burial will be in the New Sweden Cemetery under the direction of Wood Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Idaho Falls LDS Pioneer Ward Mission Fund, 2020 Charlotte Drive, Idaho Falls, ID 83402. --------------------------------------- Condolences sent online: Mackie and Dale Garland drdale@verizon.net With our deepest sympathy for the loss of your dearest Wife and Mother. We loved her very much, we considered her our dear friend even though we rarely saw her. May God Bless you all at this time. Wendy & Webster Family wejowe@cableone.net We are sad to her of her passing and will have you in our prayers. She was a very loved teacher, and my brother Cody was very fond of her and always returned to see her in the classroom. May time heal your family and God be with you all till you are together again. God bless. Susie and Ted Ransom Keith, We were so sorry to hear about Lyla. I will always remember the good times that she gave to us at school. We will remember you in our prayers. Susie and Ted Ransom Emily Edwards Mrs. Godfrey was a wonderful teacher. In 2005, before she retired, she had a great influence on me. I wish I could talk to her soon, but I will have to wait awhile . . . I hope every thing good for your family and friends. I send lots of love to you guys.