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# The Ties That Bind: The Genesis of the Humpherys Family Reunion

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.

But a question lingered, a soft whisper carried on the Wyoming wind: how could this sprawling family, now scattered across the map like seeds sown by a restless hand, maintain the ties that Dean and Neva had so carefully cultivated? The answer, it seemed, lay in a simple yet profound idea: a family reunion.

The late 1970s and early 1980s were a time of shifting cultural landscapes in America. The Vietnam War had ended, leaving a nation grappling with disillusionment and social unrest. The economy was struggling, with high inflation and unemployment rates casting a shadow over the American dream. Yet, amidst these challenges, a renewed emphasis on family values began to emerge, a yearning for connection and stability in a rapidly changing world.

It was in this context that Nadean, Sharon, and Florence, three of Dean and Neva's daughters, conceived the idea of a family reunion. They understood the importance of staying connected, of celebrating their shared heritage, and of honoring their parents, who had instilled in them the values of faith, hard work, and unwavering love for one another.

The idea resonated deeply with the rest of the family. The Humpherys children, now adults with families of their own, were scattered across the country, pursuing careers and building lives far from the familiar landscapes of Etna, Wyoming. Yet, despite the miles that separated them, they felt a strong pull towards their roots, a desire to reconnect with their siblings, their cousins, and their parents.

And so, in the summer of 1981, the first Dean and Neva Humpherys Family Reunion was held in Etna, Wyoming. It was a modest affair, a potluck dinner at the local church, followed by games and activities in the park. But the impact was profound. For the first time in many years, the entire Humpherys family was gathered together, celebrating their shared history and reaffirming their commitment to one another.

Nadean, with her infectious enthusiasm and knack for organization, took the lead in planning the event. Sharon, known for her warm heart and her ability to connect with people, reached out to family members near and far, ensuring that everyone felt welcome. And Florence, with her meticulous attention to detail, handled the logistics, ensuring that everything ran smoothly.

The reunion was a resounding success, a testament to the power of family bonds and the enduring legacy of Dean and Neva Humpherys. Children played together, cousins reminisced about old times, and siblings shared stories about their lives. Dean and Neva, their faces beaming with pride, watched as their family came together, their hearts filled with joy.

The 2021 edition of *The Humpherys Herald* offered a snapshot of Nadean’s life, a life marked by resilience and a deep connection to family. Living in St. George, Utah, she found joy in her community and cherished visits from her loved ones. She spoke of kidney stone removals and trips to temples, her words infused with her trademark humor and unwavering faith.

The success of the first reunion sparked a desire to make it an annual event. The Humpherys family, scattered across the country, needed a way to stay connected, to share their lives, and to celebrate their shared heritage. And so, the annual Dean and Neva Humpherys Family Reunion became a tradition, a cornerstone of the family's identity.

Over the years, the reunions evolved, taking on different forms and locations, reflecting the changing dynamics of the family. Some years, the reunions were held in Etna, Wyoming, a return to their roots. Other years, they ventured further afield, exploring new destinations and creating new memories.

In 1983, Newell took the reins, hosting the reunion along the banks of the Greys River, a place of profound significance to the Humpherys family. The Greys River, a majestic waterway that winds through the Wyoming wilderness, had always been a source of recreation and sustenance for the Humpherys family. Fishing, hunting, and camping along its banks were cherished pastimes, providing opportunities to escape the drudgery of daily life and connect with the natural world.

In 1984, Gerald hosted the reunion in Etna and Astoria, a blend of familiar landscapes and new experiences. Gerald, known for his adventurous spirit and his love for the outdoors, brought a unique energy to the event, organizing hikes, fishing trips, and campfire sing-alongs.

In 1985, Ray, with his infectious enthusiasm and love for life, took charge of the reunion in Etna. Ray, a natural storyteller, filled the reunion with laughter and shared memories, reminding everyone of the importance of cherishing each moment.

In 1986, Jan, Curt, and Chelsea organized the reunion in Billings, Montana, a celebration of baptisms and family milestones. The event, held in conjunction with the baptisms of Curt and Chelsea, brought together family members from far and wide, united by their shared faith and their love for one another.

In 1987, Robert hosted the reunion in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a breathtaking destination that showcased the beauty of the American West. Robert, with his adventurous spirit and his love for the outdoors, organized hikes, fishing trips, and campfire gatherings, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

In 1988, Florence took on the task of organizing the reunion along the Greys River, a return to the familiar landscapes of their childhood. Florence, with her warm heart and her ability to connect with people, created a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that everyone felt included and valued.

In 1989, Ken hosted the reunion in Etna, a celebration of family and community. Ken, known for his strong work ethic and his commitment to his values, organized activities that emphasized teamwork, cooperation, and the importance of giving back to the community.

In 1990, Sharon organized the reunion in McCoy Creek, a chance to explore new landscapes and create new memories. Sharon, with her adventurous spirit and her love for the outdoors, led hikes, organized games, and shared stories around the campfire.

In 1991, Nadean, with her infectious enthusiasm and knack for organization, took charge of the reunion in Etna and Afton, a celebration of family and faith. Nadean, with her quick wit and her ability to find humor in the everyday, filled the reunion with laughter and joy.

In 1992, Newell, ever the thoughtful son, organized the reunion in Etna, a tribute to Dean and Neva and their enduring legacy. Newell, with his meticulous attention to detail and his warm, personal tone, created a reunion that was both meaningful and memorable.

In 1993, Gerald, with his adventurous spirit and his love for the outdoors, hosted the reunion in Etna and Star Valley Ranch, a celebration of nature and family. Gerald, known for his storytelling abilities, filled the reunion with tales of his adventures, captivating young and old alike.

In 1994, Nadean, Sharon, and Florence once again joined forces to organize a surprise 80th birthday party for Neva, a testament to their love and admiration for their mother. The event, held at the Etna church, brought together family members from far and wide, united by their shared affection for Neva.

As the years passed, the reunions continued to evolve, reflecting the changing times and the growing family. They were a time for laughter, for tears, for sharing stories, and for creating new memories. They were a time to honor Dean and Neva and to reaffirm the values that had shaped their family.

And as the Humpherys family looked to the future, they knew that the annual reunion would continue to serve as a vital link, connecting generations and preserving their shared heritage. It was a testament to the power of family bonds, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, love and loyalty would always prevail.

In 2017, as Kim prepared for the next reunion, she wrote, “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.

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