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# Neva: The Heart of the Home, A Spirit Unbowed

Dean Gardner Humpherys, a gentle giant forged in war, had passed on his mantra to the family: "Such is life." A philosophy of acceptance, resilience, and humor in the face of life's inevitable ups and downs. Now, as we turn the page, we are greeted by the vibrant Neva, the woman who complemented Dean's quiet strength with her infectious laughter and unwavering love. She was the Heart of the Home and Queen of the Softball Field, a matriarch whose spirit and energy shaped the Humpherys family in profound ways.

Neva Clark Humpherys was a force of nature, a whirlwind of energy and love. Born into a world still reeling from the Great Depression, Neva learned early the value of hard work, resourcefulness, and the importance of family. The 1930s were a time of economic hardship, but also of close-knit communities and shared values. Neva embodied that spirit, a woman who could just as easily milk a cow as she could deliver a witty retort.

Her life in Etna, Wyoming, was one defined by the rhythms of the land. Etna, a small, tight-knit community nestled in the Star Valley, was a place where everyone knew everyone, where neighbors helped neighbors, and where the simple pleasures of life were cherished. It was a world away from the bustling cities and the fast-paced lives of the coasts.

Neva's vibrant personality was matched by her striking appearance. In an era where hairstyles were statements, Neva's beehive was legendary. A towering confection of blonde hair, perfectly sculpted and sprayed into submission, it was her signature, a testament to her meticulousness and her flair for the dramatic. Kim, in the 2016 newsletter, fondly recalled her mother looking like a movie star with her blonde hair piled high, a testament to Neva's enduring glamour even in the rugged landscape of Wyoming.

But Neva was more than just a pretty face and a gravity-defying hairdo. She was a woman of substance, a skilled athlete, and a fierce competitor. Her domain was the softball field, where she reigned supreme as a pitcher, striking fear into the hearts of opposing batters. Kim wrote of her mother's prowess on the softball field, "She pitched that ball hard and fast. She was written up many times for her wins in the Missoula newspaper."

Softball was more than just a game for Neva; it was a passion, a source of pride, and a way to connect with her community. In an era before Title IX, when opportunities for women in sports were limited, Neva carved out her own space, defying expectations and proving that women could be just as strong and athletic as men. The softball field was her stage, and she played her part with gusto, inspiring generations of young women in Etna.

Neva's love for softball wasn't just a personal pursuit; it was a family affair. Her children grew up on the sidelines, watching their mother dominate the game, learning from her example the importance of dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The softball field became a second home for the Humpherys family, a place where memories were made, lessons were learned, and bonds were strengthened.

The family newsletters, those annual chronicles of the Humpherys clan, are filled with glimpses of Neva's indomitable spirit. In 2016, Kim recounted a trip to Wyoming where Neva, despite her age, was out on the ball diamond, playing with her grandchildren. "Mom was out there playing with us," Kim wrote, "and she hit the ball every time it was pitched to her. She had certainly not lost her touch." It was a testament to her enduring passion for the game and her unwavering commitment to her family.

Neva's words, "Anything that is worth doing is worth doing well", became a guiding principle for the Humpherys family, a call to excellence in all aspects of life. It was a philosophy that reflected her own dedication and her belief in the power of hard work. She instilled in her children the importance of striving for their best, of taking pride in their accomplishments, and of never settling for mediocrity.

Neva's influence extended far beyond the softball field and the beehive hairdo. She was the matriarch of a large and loving family, a woman who held them together with her warmth, her humor, and her unwavering support. In the 1980s, as families across America faced increasing pressures and challenges, Neva created a haven of love and stability for her children. The annual Humpherys Family Reunion, which began in 1981, became a symbol of her commitment to family, a time for everyone to come together, to celebrate their shared heritage, and to honor the legacy of Dean and Neva Humpherys.

As the children grew, the annual family reunions continued to be the glue that held the family together. The 2017 newsletter, edited by Kim, proudly declared, "37 Annual Reunions and 27 Years of Humpherys' Family Newsletters…Traditions Continue…" In a world of constant change, the Humpherys family found solace and strength in their traditions, in their shared history, and in their unwavering love for each other.

Nadean, in her 2016 newsletter, offered a glimpse into Neva's enduring presence in the lives of her children, recounting a trip to the open house at the Star Valley Temple. "We were all there but Katie and Logan and their spouses," Nadean wrote. "Weddings and surgeries caused those two couples missing out on this fun time." It was a reminder of the importance of family, even in the face of life's inevitable challenges.

Even in later years, Neva's spirit remained undimmed. In 2016, Kim wrote of a Thanksgiving gathering at Pam and Ray's, "Mom was out there as well and it wonderful to spend Thanksgiving together, and Bryan enjoyed finally getting to see where I grew up. It went by too quickly." The simple act of gathering together, of sharing a meal, of celebrating their blessings, was a testament to the enduring power of family bonds.

Life, as Dean would say, continued its inevitable course. The family newsletters chronicled the births, the marriages, and the milestones that marked their lives. The newsletters also touched on the challenges they faced: illnesses, job losses, and other hardships. And through it all, the family rallied together, supporting each other with love, compassion, and a healthy dose of humor.

Neva's legacy was one of love, laughter, and unwavering commitment to family. She was the Heart of the Home and Queen of the Softball Field, but she was also the soul of the Humpherys family, a woman whose spirit would continue to inspire generations to come. As we turn the page, we will see how Dean and Neva together built a family that would continue to honor the values of their ancestors and create a legacy that would endure for generations to come.

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