With deep love and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Leslie Joyce Wrathall Salinas, who died peacefully with her daughter and closest companion, Stephanie, by her side on February 9, 2026, after a brave, brief battle with cancer.

Born on November 9, 1945, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Leslie was the beloved daughter of Nellie May Westergreen Wrathall and James Wrathall. She dedicated her life to faith and family as a devoted member of the Christian congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses for 65 years. Leslie was baptized alongside her parents on December 31, 1960, a commitment that shaped her life and values.

Before marrying Ruldolph “Rudy” Salinas on January 22, 1982, Leslie was an exceptional single mother, raising her children with strength and devotion. In 1995, she and Rudy moved from Salt Lake City to Montpelier, Idaho, to assist the local congregation.

In addition to her faith and devotion to her children, Leslie embraced her creative passions. She ran Frog Hollow Pottery for 20 years in her beloved Bear Lake Valley, becoming an accomplished self-taught potter whose work was featured in galleries and art festivals. Her artistic spirit also shone through in learning guitar, painting watercolors, spinning, knitting, and macramé.

After Rudy’s passing, Leslie and Stephanie settled in Preston, Idaho, where they became a familiar and faithful presence in the community, sharing their beliefs with kindness and dedication. The friendships Leslie nurtured over the years were a source of strength and mutual support (Proverbs 18:24).

Leslie will be remembered for her unwavering faith, artistic talent, and deep love she shared with family and friends. Her kindness and creativity touched everyone she met, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Leslie was preceded in death by her husband, Rudy; her parents, Nellie and James; and her two brothers, James N. and Edward S. Wrathall. She is survived by two children from her first marriage, Nathan Groves and Stephanie Shaw, who will forever cherish her love and guidance.

As a faithful witness of Jehovah, Leslie believed in the reward promised in the Bible of the resurrection of the dead. Her family and friends take comfort and look forward to seeing her again in paradise on Earth (Psalms 37:29).

Memorial services will be held on March 7, 2026, at 5 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 2240 South 600 East, Salt Lake City, Utah.

To share a favorite memory of Leslie or to offer condolences to the family, please leave a tribute on this page.