Elaine Spencer Mayes

Elaine S Mayes, born December 28, 1940, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loved ones on March 25, 2024.

Elaine was the oldest of eight children (six girls and two boys). Being the oldest, she did a lot of babysitting. Elaine grew up in the Blackfoot/Shelley area, where she attended elementary, junior high, and high school. Elaine Graduated from Shelley High School in 1959.

Elaine went to Rick’s College, where she got her Associates Degree in Early Education. Elaine’s first teaching job was in Paul, Idaho. There she met Ila Mayes who introduced Elaine to her son Don Mayes. He became the love of her life.

Elaine and Don married on July 19, 1963. Later on, they were sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple on June 19, 1964. Two children were born: Brad Mayes, on February 5, 1964, and Donna Pieper, on December 10, 1964.

Elaine and Don moved to Pocatello, after marrying, where she taught school at Emerson Elementary and Roosevelt Elementary. While in Pocatello, Elaine graduated from ISU with a Bachelor of Arts.

In 1973, They moved back to Rupert, where she took a teaching job at Acequia Elementary 2nd Grade. As time went by, Elaine went back to teaching, where she first started at Paul Elementary 2nd and 3rd grades with her now mother-in-law Ila Mayes.

Elaine had a love of teaching at school, primary and home. Elaine loved being with her family, especially her grandchildren. They were her pride and joy. Elaine also enjoyed bowling.

Her Husband Don was her world. He took care of her ‘til the end. Elaine will be missed by many.

Elaine is survived by: Husband Donald Mayes, of Rupert Daughter Donna (Mike) Pieper, of Pocatello Five Grandchildren: Michael—Idaho Falls, Daniel (Amanda) Pieper—Rupert, Candace (Cody) Stombaugh—Pocatello, Sadie Palmer (Pieper)—Pocatello, Zach Pieper (Adopted Grandson)--Rupert and Grandchildren :Landen, Tristen, Kaiydence, Lakota, Boedee, Macey, Carlon, Baylor, Avery and Laramie.

She was preceded in death by her: Parents—Lynn and Mary Spaencer Son—Brad Mayes Two sisters—Marilyn and Arlene Niece—Tammy Nephew—William (Bill) Brian Step Granddaughter—Amber.

A funeral service for Elaine will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 1, 2024, at the Rupert West Stake Center—with Bishop Russ Edgar presiding. A viewing for family and friends will be held one hour prior.