Mary LaRee Lewis Sperry, passed away peacefully at her home on November 18, 2024, at the age of 75. Her life was one marked by love, service, and dedication to her family, community, and faith.

LaRee was born on July 18, 1949, to Theras Evans and Catherine (Katie) Lewis in Malad, Idaho. She grew up in the close-knit community of St. John, Idaho, where she enjoyed the company of many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her early years were filled with the joy of being surrounded by extended family, especially her beloved grandparents, who lived just down the road from her home.

LaRee graduated from Malad High School in 1967 and went on to attend Ricks College, where she earned an associate’s degree before transferring to Brigham Young University. There, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, a field that she would love and devote much of her life to. LaRee was a proud BYU fan, cheering for the Cougars with great passion.

In 1971, She returned to Malad to become the first kindergarten teacher at Malad Elementary School. It was during this time, while on a blind date, she met Craig Lewis Sperry, a man she would come to love deeply. LaRee and Craig were married in the Logan Utah Temple on June 1, 1973, and together they created a life filled with love, faith, and community. LaRee and Craig made their home in Malad, where they raised their family and were active in both community and church service.

LaRee dedicated her life to being a mother and a teacher. Jason, the first of their four children, was born in 1974, and over the next several years, their family grew to include Michael, Megan, and Ashley. LaRee took an eight-year break from teaching to raise her children. After returning to work, she taught kindergarten for several years before transitioning to first grade, where she taught for the next 20 years. LaRee retired in 2010 after 30 years of service, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and caring for her students.

Her devotion to service extended beyond her family and classroom. LaRee was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many capacities, including as a Primary worker, Relief Society President, and Young Women’s President. LaRee faced the heart-wrenching loss of her beloved husband, Craig, in 1999, just after their 25th wedding anniversary. Despite this trial, she remained steadfast in her faith, continuing to serve and inspire those around her with her strength and grace.

LaRee’s commitment to service also extended to her community. She served on various boards and committees, including the Oneida Education Foundation, the Farm Bureau Women’s Group, the Hall of Fame Committee, and as the president of the Fine Arts Club. Whatever she undertook, she did with dedication and a desire to make a positive impact.

Above all, LaRee’s greatest joy was her family. She loved her children with all her heart and was an ever-present source of support for them. She cherished her role as a grandmother, taking great pride in being involved in the lives of her 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Even in her final days, her thoughts were with her loved ones, always ensuring that they were well cared for and loved.

LaRee was preceded in death by her husband, Craig; her parents, Theras and Katie Lewis; her brother, Theras Gordan Lewis (Kathleen); and her grandparents. She is survived by her four children, Jason (Jeni) Sperry, Michael (Cami) Sperry, Megan (Ivan) Jensen, and Ashley (Kade) Price, as well as her 12 grandchildren: Corban, Britta (Jaden), Maren, Ella, Olivia, Miles, Gavin, Braylee, Kallen, Paxton, Colson, and Kortney, along with one great-grandchild, Peter.

LaRee’s life was filled with love, faith, and service. She taught us all, by example, the value of kindness, hard work, and devotion to family leaving behind a legacy that will bless her family for generations to come. Funeral services will be held in the Malad Stake Center, Tuesday, November 26 at 12 pm. A viewing will be November 25 from 7-9 pm and on the 26th from 10:30-11:30 am also in the Malad Stake Center. Here is a link to view remotely. https://youtube.com/live/7MRslAq9io4?feature=share