Muriel McLeroy

Muriel Lois McLeroy of Pocatello, passed away on November 23, 2023.

We will never forget the day when a girl, a mere girl of 8 years old took the stage. Riding bareback in the arena on a grey dappled pony named Ginger, she shone bright. It was against all odds for she started out with nothing and made something spectacular, a sight to see. A girl without the fancy boot wear, without the high-end sparkly wrangler western shirt with snaps, without even ribbons in her pony’s braids. But man, could that little girl ride! She stunned the judges, and they had no choice but to give her “Best of Show,” a blue-ribbon rosette. That little girl...always, “Best of Show” wherever she went and oh, the lives she touched!

Our hearts are heavy with sadness by the loss of our dear sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, and friend to all those who knew her.

Muriel was born on July 14, 1971 to James and Muriel Hoover in Phoenix, Arizona.

As a young girl, Muriel grew up loving animals. While her first love may have been horses, it’s fair to say that all animals equally acquired her love and affection. Her big heart never allowed her to turn away any lost, abandoned, or injured animal. Her one and true constant companion was her four-legged friend whom she named Tines. Rescued as a pup, they bonded the moment they met and were inseparable. One of her greatest pleasures was taking Tines to nearby hills, exploring together.

Muriel’s greatest pride and joy came from her two sons, Ray and Mark. Her happiest moments and memories came from raising them alongside her longtime friend, Tim Smith. She treasured any time she could spend with her sons and grandchildren.

She was most at peace and content when she was in nature. You could find Muriel either scouting, hunting, fishing, camping, or hiking, either solo or with friends. When four wheeling, she could always count on her brother, Larry. She never hesitated to share her hunting bounty with others. Grilling up a steak and spending time enjoying it around the fire in her backyard was one of her favorite past times.

Great pleasure and satisfaction came from making others happy.

Muriel made her career and was a dedicated pet groomer at Ma N Paws Pet Parlor. She was knowledgeable and conscientious. Her clients quickly became her friends and knew that their pets would not only be well groomed, but truly cared for by her. She always put the needs of her clients first and went out of her way to accommodate them; sometimes making home visits.

Muriel will be remembered for her passion, her independent spirit, her warm happy smile, and her doggedness.

Farewell, Blonde Huntress.

Muriel is survived by her two sons, Ray (Willow) McLeroy, grandchildren: Breckan, Timmy, and Odezsa, Mark (Jacqueline) McLeroy, grandson: Carson, Siblings: Dorothy Apps, Larry Hughes, Kathy (Gary) Beardall, Douglas Hughes, Lisa (Greg) Day, Darrin (Peggy) Hoover, Jon Hoover, Troy (Sharon) Hoover.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Muriel Hoover, Kerry Hughes (brother)and Nicole Hoover (niece).

The family would like to thank those who have graciously volunteered to adopt Tines and Pumpkin Spice.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to an organization close to her heart, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

A memorial service in her honor is planned in the Copper Basin Area at a later date.