Out of the nominations received for the 2014 Volunteer of the Year, the name of Lila Moss stood out. Lila has always been active in the community, and is especially known for her work through the American Legion Auxiliary. Her sons worked hard to keep the announcement a secret, not even telling their dad, Bill! The following tribute is even more special because it was written by her son. 

Lila Moss was born on October 16, 1928, to Milt and Naomi Scott. While she started her life in Gwenford, Idaho, the family soon moved to Pleasantview, where her dad built Scott’s Service. A few years later her mother passed away, and Lila, at age 11, became responsible for much of the care of her family, beginning her long life of service. The jobs of cooking, cleaning and taking care of the house, while shared with siblings, became her responsibility. 

Lila later graduated from Malad High School and then started to work at the First National Bank in Malad. While working at the bank, she met Bill Moss. Lila and Bill have been married for 67 years. Together, they have raised four sons, Norval, John, Ken and Jim. 

Taking care of Bill and raising her boys became Lila’s primary focus in life. Her commitment to a life of volunteering began as she helped with the events that involved her sons and husband. She served in the Primary for 15 years. She also taught Sunday School and worked in the M.I.A. and Relief Society. 

For many years, Lila served as the Compassionate Leader in the Relief Society, providing help for families who needed support during times of difficulties. Of all the jobs she has had in the church, this was her favorite as she was able to be there for people who really needed help. 

With Bill’s on-going service in the American Legion organization, Lila became involved in that work as well. In addition to other events, for many years, she has been heavily involved in the Legion’s food booth at the horse races as she supported the efforts of the Legion. Lila and Bill also served on the committee to build the monument to honor the service men and women from Malad.  Besides being involved in the early stages of the planning of the monument, they worked tirelessly to help raise the money necessary to build the memorial. 

The Red Cross Blood Drive has looked to Lila for leadership for the past 15 years. For the early years, she focused on getting others to give blood, but finally came to the conclusion that she could do more than just organize the donations.  After getting her high blood pressure under control, she also became a regular donor.  This past year she received her 4-Gallon Pin for her own personal donations. 

From her very young years, when she took over the household duties, when her mother died, until today, Lila has served her community. Family, friends, church, community, and service organizations have all been the recipients of the kindness of this wonderful woman. And in all of the service, Lila has been self-effacing and let the credit pass on to others.  She is a wonderful, generous, giving person who has made this valley a loving place to live. We thank her for her generous service given through her volunteer efforts.