Ardis E. Parshall

Ardis E. Parshall, a distinguished independent historian renowned for her meticulous research into Latter-day Saint history, passed away on February 22, 2026, at the age of 66. Born on March 10, 1959, Parshall dedicated her career to illuminating the often-overlooked narratives and individuals within the rich tapestry of Mormon past. Her passing marks the loss of a tireless scholar whose contributions profoundly shaped public understanding of this complex historical field.

Parshall was particularly celebrated for her commitment to public history, making scholarly research accessible to a broad audience. This dedication was most evident through her influential blog, Keepapitchinin, which she launched in 2006. Through this platform, she shared primary source materials, biographical sketches, and insightful analyses, fostering a vibrant community of readers interested in rigorous yet faithful explorations of Latter-day Saint history.

Beyond her independent work, Parshall made significant institutional contributions. She served as a historical writer for the Salt Lake Tribune from 2005 to 2011, bringing historical context to contemporary issues. Her collaborative efforts included co-editing "Mormonism: A Historical Encyclopedia" and "Dime Novel Mormons," both of which became valuable resources for scholars and enthusiasts alike. She also lent her expertise as a contributing scholar and advisory council member to the University of Utah's "Century of Black Mormons" project, helping to recover the identities and stories of early Black Latter-day Saints.

Her profound impact on the field was formally recognized in 2021 when the Mormon History Association bestowed upon her the inaugural Ardis E. Parshall Public History Award, an honor subsequently named in her recognition. This award celebrated her pioneering role in disseminating rigorous historical research beyond traditional academic circles. Colleagues and admirers consistently praised her as one of the most diligent researchers in Mormon studies, whose work influenced a generation of scholars and enthusiasts to reconsider and re-evaluate historical assumptions.

Ardis E. Parshall leaves behind a legacy of intellectual curiosity, unwavering dedication to historical truth, and a profound commitment to sharing the stories of those who might otherwise have been forgotten. Her meticulous scholarship and accessible writing style opened new avenues for understanding Latter-day Saint history, ensuring her influence will continue to resonate for years to come. She will be deeply missed by the historical community and countless readers whose lives she enriched through her work.