Lora Lee Oliverson

Lora Lee Oliverson passed away peacefully at home on the morning of June 24, 2025, at the age of 64, just as the sun rose over the mountains. She was born on September 10, 1960, in Gunnison, Utah, to Lloyd and Margaret Ann Kofford, the first of two children. When she arrived, word quickly spread through the small towns of Gunnison and Centerfield about the beautiful baby with dark hair and striking eyes—so much so that people from both towns flocked to meet her.

Lora Lee grew up on Wood Street in Midvale, where, as a young girl, she met her future husband and love of her life, Kurt Oliverson, who lived on the other end of the street. She graduated from Hillcrest High School and earned a degree in early childhood education from Utah State University. After marrying, Lora Lee and Kurt began their life together in the Logan area before settling in Sandy, Utah, where they spent 43 wonderful years raising their three sons—Chad, Colby, and Chase.

Lora Lee devoted over 20 years to teaching grades K-4, touching the lives of hundreds of children with her kindness and creativity. Famously known as the “Jelly Bean Teacher,” she was beloved by her students for her joyful spirit and for using jelly beans as a fun learning tool. “Mrs. O” cultivated meaningful relationships with her students and parents alike. She taught at Brookwood and Granite Elementary Schools, where her influence lives on in the lives of the countless children she inspired, leaving an immeasurable mark on the world.

As a lifelong, faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Lora Lee served diligently in many callings, including Nursery, Young Women, Cub Scouts, and Relief Society. She had a special gift for ministering—caring for the sick, supporting the lonely, and lifting those who felt overlooked. She was friends with everyone, regardless of their faith. One of her most meaningful experiences was serving for three years at the Draper female correctional facility, where she said the sisters there helped her more than she helped them. One of her favorite memories was when a sister taught her how to hotwire a car.

Lora Lee poured her heart and soul into her home, creating a space that feels warm and welcoming. She loved her home so deeply that even a day into a vacation, she’d say she was already homesick. Her creativity is on full display in every corner—from the vibrant flowers she planted in nearly every foot of her garden to her ever-growing (and legendary) collection of decorative pillows. Beautiful photos of loved ones and grandchildren adorn the walls. Lora Lee made her home the heart of countless cherished traditions and everyday moments—including holiday dinners, birthday parties, and gatherings. Her home was always immaculate—just don’t look in the closets, which often bursted with her clothes, some still unworn and sporting tags.

More than anything, Lora Lee loved spending time with her family—especially her grandkids. She dropped everything for a chance to be with them, always rearranging her schedule just to make it happen if needed. She built special bonds with each one, expressing her love by showering them with clothes, toys, treats, activities, and endless affection. Her home was a grandchild’s dream—rooms filled with favorite toys, a front closet with a “treasure chest” full of prizes, and endless craft projects at the ready. She adored her grandkids, and they absolutely adored her back.

Lora Lee was fiercely loyal and, as one of her favorite Olivia Newton-John songs says, “hopelessly devoted” to her family and friends. Her gentle, loving nature drew people in—everyone who met her felt instantly comfortable and like a friend. She was incredibly resilient, facing cancer not once but twice with strength and grace, never complaining and never giving up. As a mother, she gave her all—driving to countless sports games and events, dressing her kids with the best clothing and sharp haircuts, and supporting them through every stage of life. From childhood to adulthood, she was always there, loving and devoted.

She is survived by her parents Lloyd and Margaret Ann Kofford, and her loving husband, Kurt, and their sons: Chad (Addie) of Eagle Mountain, UT; Colby (Mallory) of Murray, UT; and Chase (Aubree) of Draper, UT. She was a proud grandmother to Maylie, Casen, Jovie, Rory, Leo, and Wesley. She was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Lynn Adams.

A viewing will be held this Sunday, June 29th from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Anderson & Goff Mortuary, 11859 South 700 East, Draper, UT 84020. Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 30th at 11:00 AM, with a brief viewing beforehand from 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM at the Hidden Valley Stake Center, 1450 Raddon Drive, Sandy, UT 84092. Interment to follow services at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Rd. (10600 S.), Sandy.