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# Raising a Family: Lessons Learned Under the Wyoming Sky

The echoes of Dean and Neva's wedding vows still seemed to resonate in the Wyoming air, a testament to their love and commitment. Now, the focus shifted to the monumental task of raising a family, a journey filled with both profound joy and heart-wrenching sorrow, all played out against the backdrop of the ever-changing Wyoming landscape.

As the years unfolded, the Humpherys household in Etna became a bustling hub of activity. Children arrived in a flurry of diapers, laughter, and sleepless nights. Gordon Ray, their firstborn, entered the world, only to be tragically taken in infancy, a loss that cast a long shadow over Dean and Neva's hearts. Yet, their faith and love for each other sustained them, and they welcomed Nadean, Sharon, Ken, Florence, John/Johnny, Robert, Gerald, and Newell, each child a unique blessing, a new thread in the family tapestry.

The post-war years in America were a time of both optimism and anxiety. The nation was rebuilding, and families were at the forefront of this effort. Dean, a veteran haunted by the memories of war, sought solace in the familiar rhythms of Etna, finding purpose in providing for his growing family. Neva, with her boundless energy and unwavering spirit, embraced her role as a homemaker, creating a warm and loving environment for her children.

The newsletters, those annual chronicles of the Humpherys clan, offered glimpses into the challenges and triumphs of raising a large family in rural Wyoming. Money was tight, and resources were often scarce. Dean worked tirelessly, often holding down multiple jobs, to make ends meet. Neva, with her meticulous nature, managed the household with remarkable efficiency, stretching every dollar and ensuring that her children were well-fed, clothed, and cared for.

The Humpherys children learned the value of hard work early on. They helped with chores around the house, tended to the garden, and assisted with the livestock. They learned to appreciate the simple things in life, the beauty of the Wyoming landscape, and the importance of community.

Education was also a priority for Dean and Neva. They instilled in their children a love of learning and a desire to excel in school. They encouraged them to pursue their interests and talents, providing them with the support and guidance they needed to succeed.

Faith played a central role in the Humpherys family. They were active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and their beliefs shaped their values and guided their actions. They taught their children the importance of honesty, integrity, and service to others. They instilled in them a deep sense of compassion and a desire to make the world a better place.

The newsletters, while not explicitly detailing the family's religious practices, offer glimpses into their faith-based activities. They mention baptisms, blessings, and church callings, providing a subtle yet powerful testament to the importance of faith in their lives.

Tragedy struck the Humpherys family early in their journey. The loss of their infant son, Gordon Ray, was a devastating blow. The newsletters, while not dwelling on the details of his death, acknowledge the profound grief that Dean and Neva experienced. It was a loss that would forever shape their perspective on life, reminding them of the fragility of human existence and the importance of cherishing every moment.

Yet, even in the midst of sorrow, Dean and Neva found strength in their faith and in their love for each other. They leaned on their community for support, drawing comfort from the shared experiences of their neighbors and friends. They continued to raise their family with love and devotion, instilling in their children the values of resilience, compassion, and unwavering hope.

As the Humpherys children grew older, they began to develop their own unique personalities and interests. Nadean, with her quick wit and infectious laughter, became known for her ability to find humor in any situation. Sharon, with her kind heart and gentle spirit, was a devoted friend and caregiver. Ken, with his love for the outdoors and adventurous spirit, sought solace in the mountains and forests of Wyoming. Florence, with her warm personality and talent for storytelling, became a keeper of family memories. John/Johnny, with his quiet strength and unwavering faith, served as a steady presence in the lives of his siblings. Robert, with his passion for music and the arts, brought creativity and beauty into the world. Gerald, with his entrepreneurial spirit and love for the land, built a successful ranching operation. Newell, with his thoughtful nature and meticulous attention to detail, became the family historian, preserving their stories for future generations.

The newsletters, year after year, chronicled the individual journeys of the Humpherys children, their triumphs and tribulations, their dreams and aspirations. They told of graduations, marriages, and the births of grandchildren, each event a cause for celebration. They also acknowledged the challenges they faced, from financial struggles to health problems to the everyday stresses of modern life.

The Humpherys family, like so many others, was not immune to the social and political upheavals of the 1960s and 1970s. The Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the rise of counterculture challenged traditional values and sparked widespread unrest. The newsletters, while not explicitly addressing these issues, offer glimpses into the family's response to these turbulent times. They speak of patriotism, a commitment to justice, and a desire to create a more peaceful and equitable world.

As the children grew and began to leave the nest, Dean and Neva found themselves facing a new chapter in their lives. The house in Etna, once filled with the sounds of children's laughter and playful commotion, became quieter, more peaceful. They had successfully raised their family, instilling in them the values they held dear. Now, it was time to focus on their own pursuits, to travel, to spend time with friends, and to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

The newsletters, in their later years, often highlighted Dean and Neva's travels, their visits with family, and their involvement in community activities. They spoke of their love for the Wyoming landscape, their appreciation for the simple things in life, and their unwavering faith.

In 2016, as the Humpherys family prepared for another reunion, Dean had already passed on. Neva, now in her twilight years, reflected on the journey she and Dean had shared, the challenges they had overcome, and the legacy they had created. She expressed gratitude for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, cherishing the bonds that tied them together.

"Such is life," Dean would often say, a phrase that had become a mantra for the Humpherys family. It was a reminder to accept the challenges and celebrate the joys that life inevitably brings, to find strength in faith, and to cherish the love of family.

And as we turn the page, we will explore the challenges and triumphs of raising a large family in Etna, Wyoming, the lessons learned under the vast Wyoming sky, and the enduring power of faith and family that would sustain them through trials and tribulations. The story of the Humpherys family, a story of faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment to one another, would continue to inspire and guide generations to come.

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