Belva Barlow Ashton, age 71, passed away peacefully on October 8, 1999 at her daughter's home (Allyson L. and Daniel R. Chard) due to complications following a stroke. Belva appreciated the devoted care she received from family and friends in the final years of her life.


She was born on February 26, 1928 in Salt Lake City to Alice Belva Welling and Israel Barlow.


She married Wendell J. Ashton on June 26, 1964 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple and became the second mother to his six children. A year later, they had one daughter. Belva is also known for opening her heart and home to many who consider her family.


She is an honor graduate of the University of Utah, where she was affiliated with Alpha Chi Omega, Mortar Board, and Captain of the debate team. She served in many civic activities, including the Utah Symphony Guild, the American Association of Women, the University of Utah Alumni Board, the National Advisory Council of the Brigham Young University School of Business, and the Board of Trustees for Westminster College. She served on the LDS Church Relief Society General Board for 16 years. She directed dedication activities at the LDS Church's Monument to Women in Nauvoo, Illinois.


She served as secretary to former Senator Arthur V. Watkins in Washington, D.C., and to Dr. Henry Eyring when he was dean of the University of Utah Graduate School. She presided with her husband over the LDS England London Mission.


Belva was a lifelong, faithful member of the LDS Church. She was admired by many for her sense of humor, wisdom, bright mind, and pursuit of excellence. She was also an avid sports fan who loved supporting Utah sports teams.


Survived by: children, Wendy Christiansen (Neil); Susan Ashton; Ellen VanOrman (J. Robert); Marged Kirkpatrick (Michael K.); Owen R. Ashton (Rebecca); Kay R. Ashton (Heidi) and Allyson L. Chard (Daniel R.); 31 grandchildren; and 35 great-grandchildren; siblings, Hazel Bailey; Richard "Izzy", Alvin W. Barlow, Leo H. Barlow, Barbara B. Staker. Preceded in death by: parents; husband; siblings, Owen I. Barlow, Newell Barlow, Annie Florence, Joan Hess, Job W. "J.W." Barlow, Daniel Y. Barlow.


Funeral Services will be held on Friday, October 15, 1999 at 12:00 p.m. in the Mount Olympus Eighth Ward Chapel, 4176 South Adonis Drive (3950 East). Friends and family may call on Thursday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Lawn Mortuary (2350 East 1300 South).
Published in the Salt Lake Tribune on October 10, 1999.