Vayle Nielsen (Bradford) Rubalcava

Vayle Nielsen (Bradford) Rubalcava, age 87, passed away the morning of February 23, 2026, from the effects of dementia.

She was born September 17, 1938, in Franklin, ID, a daughter of the late Helen Aileen Nielsen and Floyd Henry Bradford.

Vayle’s formative years were shaped by the pastoral embrace of Cache Valley, UT, her family eventually settling on Center St. in Hyrum. The third of five children, Vayle’s adolescence shaped a life of adventure. She earned money picking beans, learned to ski, and explored the countryside with friends and family. As a young woman, Vayle was called on a mission to England and combined with her venturesome nature it set the stage for numerous amusing stories. After her return from England, Vayle studied to be a nurse, beginning her career at LDS Hospital. After several years of courting, she married her sweetheart, the late Joe Rubalcava, in 1973. The two eventually settled in Palmdale, California, where they raised their three children.

Vayle continued the adventures with her small family. Frequent hikes, camping, skiing, and road trips that made for lasting memories. Most of all, her nature was punctuated by the kinds of decisions that added life and laughter to all her stories. Vayle’s life was also remarkable for the strength of her faith and for service to others. Often serving in the Young Women’s organization, she affected the experience of many girls with her zeal for life. Vayle was an excellent cook, and she often delivered meals to those in need. A tradition for many years, Vayle was famous for the tamales and enchiladas she made and gave away every Christmas. But, by far, those who benefited the most from Vayle’s love for cooking was her own family. After retirement from nursing, Vayle settled with Joe in Nephi, UT, where she again attracted a strong network of friends. She never ceased being involved, serving in the temple, visiting family and friends, and once again serving in the Young Women’s organization until 2023.

Though her later years were marked by a fading memory, Vayle’s independent spirit always showed through. She always lit up around her nine grandchildren, imbuing them with her own love for life. She will be remembered for shunning what a typical old woman would do, and by often doing the opposite.

Vayle is survived by her sister, Alice Bradford, her children, Roman, Melanie and Olivia, and nine adoring grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held Saturday March 21, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hobbs Creek Ward, 2505 N. Church St., Layton, Utah. Family and friends may visit Saturday from 9:00 to 10:15 a.m. at the church prior to the service.

A graveside remembrance will be held that same day at 3:00 p.m. at Franklin City Cemetery, 5400 South Hwy 91 Franklin, Idaho.

The funeral will be live-streamed and may be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of Vayle’s obituary page at www.lindquistmortuary.com

Arrangements entrusted to Lindquist's Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah.

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