Emily Svendson

Emily Allendorph Svendson, 85, passed away peacefully at her long-time home in Boulder CO, surrounded by family on July 21, 2025 only six weeks after she was dancing to live bluegrass music. Born April 26, 1940 in Baton Rouge, LA, she was raised in the country with an affinity for horses, nature, and Cajun culture. She met Douglass Svendson at LSU, married, and together had two sons, Douglass and David. Emily moved with her sons out west to Boulder, CO in the mid 70s and spent most of the past twenty years in Castle Valley, UT.

She was most alive camping for weeks at a time in the Southwest or West coast, caring for her dogs and horse, hiking, dancing at music festivals with friends, striking up conversations, reading a good book, visiting Louisiana or sharing good food and laughter with family. Many meals she shared with her granddaughter would erupt in laughter. Emily loved a good adventure and would often find herself in situations slightly beyond the comfort level of her son David. She deeply valued the black women who helped raise her and their culture, and speaking up for justice & equality. She will be remembered as loving, wild, fiercely independent and compassionate.

She is preceded in death by her son Douglass, her brother Harry, her former husband Douglass and many beloved pets. She is survived by her son David and his wife Sarah and their daughter Maya; her son Douglass' partner Isabelle and their son Matthias (of Paris); and numerous relatives. Donations in her honor may be made to local hospice or animal rescue organizations.