Beulah Hunt Stratton ~ 1972
I received a phone call today letting me know that my dear friend, and someone I considered as my "second mom," or as my daughter Paula said "my LDS mom," had passed away on Sunday. Beulah Hunt Stratton was truly a special lady ... a friend to all, and someone I will never forget. Thinking about Beulah today has brought back allot of fond memories of when I was younger ... when my testimony was growing and very tender. The influence that this great lady, as well as many other dear friends, had on my life during a very influential age, has made the difference in my entire life, as well as that of my children, grandchildren, and other posterity to continue.
I knew that Beulah had been struggling as of late and that it would probably not be long before I received this call. I can only imagine the warm welcome that she had as she arrived on the other side. The last time I saw Beulah was about a year and a half ago, when I was in Snowflake for my brother's burial. Bruce and I went to visit her on her birthday before returning home. She was starting to get forgetful, but still very much remembered us, and still had her sweet personality and sense of humor. Her words were, "Cathy, I don't get out much any more because I'm just too dingy." I'm glad that I can remember her as that person instead of when her memory and health deteriorated.
Beulah was my young women leader for several years during the time when I was gaining a testimony of the gospel before I was a member of the church. I especially remember her influence as my Laurel leader. Since my own mom was not a member of the church, I was able to go to Sister Beulah (which we lovingly called her), with any gospel questions. I was sure that I was her "favorite," even though everyone else in the class felt the same way. She called us her "lovely Laurels," and attended each of our temple weddings along the way. Beulah worked for many years as secretary at the high school, and she had a great love for the youth.
Outside the Mesa AZ temple with Sister Beulah, Jennifer, and Barb (both pregnant)
Beulah's first husband, Rex, died one night in his sleep, unexpectedly, and a few years later, she married Lorum Stratton, a long time friend who had also lost his wife a few years earlier. They were very happy together and were able to serve several missions together. Both were always happiest when they were serving others. I always thought the two made a perfect match. I was happy to be able to make a small wedding cake for them when they were married.
I will not be able to attend the funeral service on Saturday, but I hope Beulah knows that my thoughts will be there with her and the family, as well as my fond memories of days gone by. I love you Sister Beulah, and will hold a special place for you in my heart forever.
Two special letters from Beulah that I will always cherish~
Received on the night of seminary graduation~
A Christmas note~
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