Evalyne McLean

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Evalyne was the heart and soul of her family, and for an astonishing 63 years, she dedicated herself to being a full-time housewife, raising seven children alongside her beloved husband.

Evalyne McLean, Thorne, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, in American Falls, Idaho, at the age of 94. Her remarkable life began on April 4, 1932, in Rockland, where she was born into a close-knit family that instilled in her the values of hard work, devotion, and love—virtues she carried with her through all her days.

Evalyne was the heart and soul of her family, and for an astonishing 63 years, she dedicated herself to being a full-time housewife, raising seven children alongside her beloved husband. Her tireless spirit extended beyond the home as she also put in 15 years of diligent labor at a potato warehouse and spent 10 years working at the State of Idaho Seed Depository in Aberdeen. These roles highlighted her unwavering work ethic and commitment to supporting those she loved.

Beyond her work, Evalyne was an accomplished quilt maker—a true artist whose care and attention were expressed through every stitch. Each quilt was carefully crafted by hand, with every piece lovingly cut and sewn together. With five sons and a hardworking husband, there was always a ready supply of denim for her famous Levi quilts, produced by the dozen and cherished by every member of the family. Among her proudest achievements was her contribution to the renovation of an LDS temple in Salt Lake City—a project that filled her with immense pride. Perhaps most special of all were the handmade quilts she gave to each member of the family, tokens of warmth and memory that will forever remain treasured heirlooms.

Evalyne believed her greatest accomplishment was her marriage—63 years of unwavering partnership with her husband—and the raising of their seven hardworking, family-oriented children. Together, they built a legacy rooted in love, perseverance, and shared joy.

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Each quilt was carefully crafted by hand, with every piece lovingly cut and sewn together.

Family gatherings defined some of the happiest moments in Evalyne’s life. She cherished trips to the mountains to gather firewood for winter, though the truest purpose was togetherness—roasting hot dogs, making s’mores, or simply delighting in each other’s company. Weekends meant fishing and cooking out by the creek bank, simple pleasures that grew into precious memories her family will always hold dear.

Evalyne is survived by her children: Tamie Phillips, James Ray McLean, Eva Rae Bybee, LaMont McLean, Irvan McLean, and Kim McLean, as well as Myrle McLean; 20 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and 31+ great-great-grandchildren . Her enduring love and steadfast presence live on in each of them, as well as in every grandchild and great-grandchild touched by her kindness.

She was predeceased by her beloved granddaughter, Dena Marie Bybee; her sister, Donna Myrle Tilley; her brother, Myrlon John Thorne; and both of her parents. Their memories, too, form a vital part of her lasting legacy.

Evalyne McLean’s life was defined by devotion to family, tireless service, and simple joys—an example and inspiration to all who knew her. Her warmth shines on through her family, her handiwork, and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered, always.

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Her warmth shines on through her family, her handiwork, and the countless lives she touched.

A graveside service will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday August 27, 2026 at the Valley View Cemetery in Rockland.  Family and friends are invited to visit DavisRoseMortuary.com to order flowers, or to share condolences, memories, and photos.