Ellen Rands

Ellen Rencher Rands was born on August 13, 1936, in St. Johns, Arizona, to loving parents George A. Rencher and Elda Bloomfield Rencher. She joined her loving husband on their eternal mission July 9, 2025 in Provo, Utah. From an early age, she radiated kindness and love, touching the lives of many as a devoted mother, friend, sister, aunt, and grandmother. Those in need of comfort or guidance often sought her out, and she gave selflessly, offering her heart and wisdom to all.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Like her parents, Ellen cherished her membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served faithfully in many roles, including in Primary, Young Women’s, Scouting, as a full-time missionary, and in the temple. Her unwavering commitment to the gospel was an inspiration, setting an example of steadfast devotion and service through every stage of life.

Ellen met her eternal companion, George “Judd” Rands, at Brigham Young University. They were married in the Mesa Arizona Temple and shared a marriage filled with love, joy, and adventure for over 60 years. Together, they served full-time missions in Chile, Easter Island, and Thailand, bringing their faith and dedication to communities across the world.

Passionate about family history, Ellen and Judd spent summers in England, uncovering ancestral stories, gathering photographs, and tracing lineages that became cherished family treasures.

Ellen also had a deep love for nature. She spent countless hours tending to her flower garden, ensuring that each bloom was primed for her beautiful Sunday church arrangements. Her creative talents extended to sewing, where she was widely known for her ability to transform even the most challenging requests into stunning, handcrafted masterpieces.

Ellen possessed a rare blend of intellect, creativity, and grace, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. She was a bright light in the lives of many, sharing her love and wisdom freely.

While we mourn her passing, we rejoice in the knowledge that she is reunited with her beloved Judd, along with cherished family members and her Savior, Jesus Christ. Ellen’s legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, oldest brother Paul and baby sister June. She is survived by her brothers Roy (Barbara), Don, Karl (Kris) and Spencer (Lori) Rencher and children Barton David (Robin), Frank, Liz and George Alexander Rands, 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews who will miss her epic game nights.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at the Orem City Cemetery, 1520 North 800 East, Orem, Utah. A viewing for family and friends will be held on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at Wheeler & Sundberg Funeral Home, 495 South State Street, Orem, Utah. 

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.