Evelyn Hancock Messersmith

Evelyn left this world on April 27th, 2026, after committing 91 years of love, laughter and care to her family, friends and neighbors. Evelyn Hancock was born to Verde and Esther Carson Hancock on April 30th,1934 in Ogden, Utah. She was eldest of 3 children, spending her childhood and early teenage years in Ogden, Utah. As the oldest Evelyn grew up, helping her mother care for and corralling her younger siblings Elaine and Richard. They ran amuck in Ogden until their small family moved to Lehi, Utah in 1949 while Evelyn was in High School, where she graduated from Lehi High School in 1952.

Evelyn met the love of her life Leland Messersmith in 1950 while he was on leave from the Navy. Lee had asked Esther on a date and when he picked her up Esther introduced Lee to her daughter Evelyn. Lee was smitten with Evelyn, and Esther was delighted that the two hit it off. Evelyn and Lee kept in contact and dated off and on until after Lee’s discharge from the Navy and return home in 1951. Lee proposed to Evelyn on her 18th birthday and the two were married on Aug 30th, 1952.

Evelyn and Lee moved to Layton, Utah shortly after they married where they welcomed and raised their 3 children, Cerie (1953), Eldon (1954), and Bart Messersmith (1958). Those three children expanded into 9 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren.

Evelyn and Lee spent their 40 years together traveling, RVing, being active with the United States Junior Chamber (JCs) and the V.F.W., and along the way turned life-long friends into family. Evelyn served as the president of the Jayceette’s for a time, often traveling and attending events and conventions, advocating for civic involvement and participation both locally and nationally.

Evelyn welcomed friends, family, or anyone that stopped by into her home and aways had a cup of coffee, cream soda, or fudgesicle ready. Her door was never closed to anyone wanting to stop and say hello, get a hug, or just sit and talk. She enjoyed crocheting, embroidering, painting, being out in nature, and she never met a dog she didn’t love. She was fiercely independent and didn’t ask for help often but was so grateful for any help rendered. She loved to brag about her family, keeping everyone appraised for the happening in lives of her children and grandchildren and sharing their accomplishments.

Evelyn is survived by her children Cerie (Craig) Child of Layton, Utah, Eldon (Gloria) Messersmith of Plain City, Utah, and Bart Messersmith of Salt Lake City, Utah, 9 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that you donate to your favorite charity.

Funeral services will be held Monday May 4, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah. Family and friends may visit Monday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the mortuary prior to the service.