Rhonda Kaye Blake

Rhonda Kaye Blake (Heaton) passed away May 11, 2017, surrounded by loved ones.  Rhonda fought cancer for 4 ½ years with all of her heart, might, mind and soul. She touched everyone’s hearts with her courage, love, faith, optimism, kindness and grace. Rhonda looked for miracles every day and every day she found them. We rejoice in her life and we rejoice that she is now able to run without pain into the arms of her Heavenly Father and many loved ones who went on before her.

Rhonda was born in Kanab, Utah 45 years ago to McKay and Audrey Heaton. She was raised in Moccasin, Arizona on a cattle ranch. One of her great loves in life was working with family on the ranch, handling cows, planting gardens and creating adventures in the outdoors. Rhonda graduated from Fredonia High School in 1989. She went on to attend Dixie College and Utah State University, graduating with a double major in Early Childhood Development and Elementary Education. Rhonda served a mission for the LDS Church in Tokyo Japan North Mission where she developed an affinity for sushi. She taught second grade at East Elementary in St. George for 20 years.  It was there that she met and married her eternal companion, Stephen Blake, who has been by her side supporting her since their marriage 18 years ago. The Blake family embraced Rhonda and she quickly became a favorite. Rhonda considered her greatest miracle and accomplishment in this life to be her daughter, Kayelee, who she loves with all of her heart.

Rhonda enjoyed laughing and always had a sparkle in her eye.  She went out of her way to make new friends, to serve others around her, and spend time with family.  She loved nature, the outdoors, teaching and creating.  Many benefitted from her creativity and ingenuity in education.  She always looked for the best in others, found it, and helped them shine.

Rhonda loved and served her Heaton family, her Blake family, her East Elementary family, her church family, and her many friends and medical professionals who helped her in her journey. Most of all Rhonda loved her Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ. She relied heavily upon her faith and knowledge of a plan for her life which gave her intense trials meaning and purpose. Heaven has gained a beautiful, courageous angel.

Rhonda is survived by her husband, Stephen Lee Blake; her daughter, Kayelee Mae Blake; her parents, McKay and Audrey Parkes Heaton; her siblings, Tera Reynolds, Regina Finicum (Guy), Terrill Heaton (Carolyn), Heather Heaton, and Patrice Heaton. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Sharon Wittwer Blake, and a huge extended family who love her greatly.  She is preceded in death by her father-in-law, Jay R. Blake.

Viewings and funeral services will be held at the St. George Stake Center (591 W 500 N). All times are Mountain Daylight time.

Viewings will be held on Friday, May 19, 2017 from 6-8pm and Saturday, May 20th 9:30-10:30am.  Funeral services will be on Saturday, May 20, 2017, at 11:00am. Interment will be at the Moccasin, Arizona cemetery at 3:00pm.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Hughes Mortuary, 1037 East 700 S., St. George, Utah. Donations may be made at https://www.youcaring.com/rhondastephenandkayeleeblake-821829