Emma Louise Ashton Hamblin passed away on March 17, 2024, of natural causes in her home. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, a prolific artist, and gentle spirit. Her life was burdened with many struggles, yet she accomplished so much. She was committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ and loved her family.
Emmy (as she was known all her life) was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Conway Alan and Emma Rae Ashton. She lived a full and happy childhood, learning to play the piano, sew, draw, and sing. This began her lifelong love of art and music. She spoke of going to a Beatles concert in her teens with her younger brother Roger, which always made her eyes twinkle. She traveled and vacationed with her family throughout the United States and Canada. She lovingly recalled trips to the McKay home in Huntsville with Papa Dade and Mama Ray McKay.
Emmy graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor of arts degree in art. While there, she participated in many choirs and studied abroad in France. She later received a Master of Arts degree from Bowling Green State University and a teaching certification from Weber State University. She taught art classes at the public school, college, and community levels. Her beautiful paintings were displayed in exhibitions, sold, and gifted to family and friends.
She served in many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints over the years. These included a mission in Paris, France, and various callings in Sunday School, Primary, and many choirs. Her most recent calling was the piano accompanist in Relief Society for which she diligently practiced and “always played so beautifully.”
Of all her many talents and accomplishments there is no doubt she would claim her three children as her greatest achievement (much to their humble dismay). She loved them fiercely. To them, she passed her very best gifts: talents in music, art, and teaching. More importantly, though, she passed on an attention to detail, gentleness, and just a wee bit of stubbornness to keep life interesting.
Emmy has reunited with her parents and her Savior, whole and untethered. She is survived by her children, Bryan (Jenny), Emma Rochelle (Ryan), and David (Jill), 10 grandchildren, her four brothers and their spouses. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
The family would like to express their deep gratitude to all family, friends, and neighbors who loved Emmy in small and large ways throughout her life.