Elizabeth Margaret Platt

Elizabeth Margaret Labuschagne Platt, age 94, passed away of natural causes on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at her home in Henrieville with her beloved daughter and granddaughter by her side. Dawn and Verity were untiring in their loving care for Elizabeth during her last few years.

Elizabeth was born January 25, 1932, in Northern Rhodesia/Zambia, in Africa. Her parents were Kristoffel “Christian” Barend Labuschagne and Johanna Magdalena Van Rensburg. Her father spoke 14 languages and worked for the U.K. MI-6 foreign intelligence service. As a child, Elizabeth enjoyed going on safari expeditions in Africa's bush country with her father as the hunting guide when she was home from boarding school, where she received her education. Elizabeth learned a great deal about many things from her father and spoke four languages herself, including some African tribal languages.

Elizabeth married early and worked hard to provide for her four children after her divorce. Her life was difficult, but she had an unconquerable spirit that got her through hard times. She had a deep love for her children, and they always knew they were loved.

Elizabeth met her husband, Edward Palmerston Platt, an Englishman, after he went to Africa to find adventure. They were married in 1962, and Ed (also known as Ted) became “Daddy” to her children. In his heart, he adopted them as his own and gave them a wonderful life together.

In South Africa, Ted and Elizabeth met missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and about a year after their marriage, they were baptized. They were sealed in the temple after immigrating to the United States in 1982. After a time in Oregon, California, and Arizona, they found a home in Henrieville, Utah, where they lived out their remaining years. Elizabeth spent countless hours in the temple doing vicarious work for her ancestors to help fill the lonely years after Ted died in 2012. Her faith in Jesus Christ and the testimony of His Gospel was deep and abiding.

Elizabeth and Ted were valued members of the Henrieville Ward and the town. Those who visited their home were fascinated with her stories and with the marvelous collection of artifacts from Africa. Elizabeth had a giving heart. If you weren't careful about expressing your admiration for something in her house, she would try to give it to you without hesitation. She was also a talented painter and a prolific reader with a remarkable memory.

Elizabeth is survived by a sister, Leslie; sons Ivan Leon Mow and David Lubuschagne; daughters Jean Christine “Paddy” Mow and Dawn Sharon White; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Graveside services and Interment will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at the Henrieville Cemetery. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina, and Manti
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