(May 21, 1937 – August 8, 2015)

James Dean Bogedahl, 78, passed away August 8, 2015. He was born May 21, 1937, in Salt Lake City to Albert James and Dorothy Maud Dean. He married Caroline Kaye Butterfield on June 8, 1957, in Pocatello, Idaho, and their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake LDS Temple.

Together they raised six children until Kaye passed away in 1983. Dean married Jaqueline Joan Granata October16, 1984 in the Provo LDS Temple.

Dean lived an active life of hard work, love and service. He was raised in Salt Lake and Davis Counties, and graduated from Davis High and Salt Lake Technical College. He lived and worked as a rancher and diesel mechanic in Kanab, Salt Lake City and Torrey, Utah.

Last year, he and Jackie returned to Southern Utah, making Washington their home. Dean was an active member of the LDS Church, serving in various callings, his favorite being an ordinance worker in the Manti LDS Temple for over six years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening. His greatest joy was spending time with his family. He is the rock and foundation of our family and will be greatly missed.

Dean is survived by his wife, Jackie Bogedahl; children: Jeri Crosby (Gary), Washington, Utah, Jim Bogedahl (Hiromi), West Jordan, Utah, Patty Johnson (Mark), Cedar City, Utah, Kamille Finklea (Bart), St. George, Utah, and Marci Beck (Brian), Farmington, Utah; stepchildren: Becky Mitic (Sasha), Las Vegas, Eric Young (Marta), Westerville, Ohio, David Young (Karen), Lehi, Utah; 34 grandchildren and 40 great grandchildren.

He is also survived by his siblings, Mary Marcantelli and Leon Bogedahl. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Kaye; his daughter, Lori Bogedahl; and his sister, Lova MIller.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Saturday, August 15, 11 a.m. at the Washington Fields 8th Ward Chapel, 628 S. 3000 East, St. George.
• There will be a viewing Friday, 6-8 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff, and also Saturday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the chapel.
• Interment will take place in the Washington City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

The post James Dean Bogedahl appeared first on St George News.

(October 17, 1920 – August 10, 2015)

Myrtle Dickinson Wright, age 94, passed away August 10, 2015, in Washington, Utah. She was born on October 17, 1920, to Robert Ephrim and Mary Elizabeth Lynn Dickinson. She was raised in Panguitch, Utah, on Dickinson Hill, in the town and at their ranch on Panguitch Lake.

She married Nelpher Wright on December 7, 1940, in Panguitch, Utah. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Jordan River LDS Temple. They had three children and in 1952 moved to Southern California to raise their family.

She was a wonderful lady and was loved by everyone that knew her. She was the favorite Aunt Myrt and grandma to all the generations of the Dickinson and Wright families. She was a wonderful neighbor and friend. She loved to tell stories about her growing-up days at the lake. She rode horses, milked cows, made cheese and churned butter. She loved to fish. She loved to dance, and travel but most of all she loved spending time with her family.

She was an active member of the LDS church and held many positions with the youth, especially Cub Scouts. She was a stay at home mom until Nelpher passed away and then went to work at Cal Poly University in Pamona, California, serving and loving the kids living on campus.

She moved to Hurricane, Utah, in 1998 and was happy to be back home in Utah. Recently, she was living at Beehive Homes at Coral Canyon.

She is suvived by daughter, Madda Webber; son, Phil Wright; 5 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Saturday, August 15, at 11 a.m. in the Hurricane 6th Ward LDS Chapel, 644 South 700 West, Hurricane.
• Visitation will be Saturday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the chapel.
• Interment will be in the Panguitch City Cemetery.

Thank you to all the wonderful staff at Beehive Homes and Sun Tree Hospice for their tender loving care of our mother and grandmother.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George, 435-673-2454.

The post Myrtle Dickinson Wright appeared first on St George News.

(July 31, 1923 – August 6, 2015)

Joey Maxine Covington Frei passed away Thursday, August 6, 2015, at the age of 92.  She was born July 31, 1923, in St. George, Utah, to Robert L. and Velva Prince Covington.  She married LeGrand Frei on November 14, 1942, in St. George.  Their marriage was later solemnized in the St. George Temple.

LeGrand passed away in 1992.  She was married to Darwin Russell from 1998 until he passed away in 2006.

Joey grew up the oldest of four children in St. George.  She came of age during the great depression which perhaps helped form the soft spot in her heart for the less fortunate.

She graduated from Dixie High School, and it was in that original “Dixie” building on the corner of Tabernacle and 100 South where she first laid eyes on and fell in love with a handsome, athletic boy from Santa Clara.  They were married in the midst of World War II, and their first child was born while LeGrand was serving in the US Army Air Corps.

Joey lived with her mother as a young war bride and LeGrand did not return home until after the Japanese surrender in 1945, having flown multiple missions on the crew of a B-25 bomber in the Pacific.

After the war they lived in St. George and in 1952 established their permanent home beneath the sycamore trees in Santa Clara.  They became the parents of six children.  Their daughter Susan died as an infant.

Joey was dedicated, heart and soul, to her husband and her children.  She was always there for them, even during the years when she was a working mom.  She attended LDS Business College in Salt Lake City and worked for many years as secretary to Rudger McArthur in St. George City management and the water and power department.  Using her outstanding skills in shorthand and bookkeeping, she played a key role behind the scenes in many important developments in the city’s history.

In the meantime, she never missed a beat cooking full breakfasts for her family every morning and daily dinners that would qualify as “Sunday Dinner.”  As the wife of a farmer and rancher, she often served those dinners late at night (always hot.)  And the lunches she sent out to the ranch were envied by all the cowboys.

She was determined and innovative.  When she wanted a new couch, she learned how to reupholster.  She was excellent at refinishing wood furniture and could sew anything.  She worked hard and played hard, and was legendary among her grandchildren for all the adventures she created for them.  She loved quilts and was a connoisseur of cloth.  Her closets were always full of fabrics collected for the countless quilts she made.

She was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many callings, but she never had to be called to perform her greatest deeds.  Those acts of kindness and compassion were made to down-on-their-luck travelers on the weary road of life and were not noted in meetings or from the pulpit, but in the hearts of the individuals whose lives she blessed through her gift as a true Christian.

She continued to make life bright for those she loved and those she met along the way until a stroke incapacitated her five years ago.  Yet even up to her last breath, when she passed peacefully last week, she retained her sense of humor and her characteristic interest in others more than self.

She is survived by her children Keith, Las Vegas, Nevada; Russell, Vernal, Utah; Debbie (Lyman Hafen), Santa Clara; and Nick (Liisa), Santa Clara; 29 grandchildren; and 48 great grandchildren; brother Robert “Bob” Covington, Pine Valley, Utah; and sister Betty Turnbeaugh, Spokane, Washington.

She is preceded in death by her husband, LeGrand; husband, Darwin Russell; daughter, Susan; son, Michael Kim; daughter-in-law Jeralyn Frei; granddaughters, Julie Anne Frei and Heidi Forbes; great granddaughter, Markelle Frei; and sister, Vivian Covington Frost.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Saturday, August 15, at 11 a.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff Street, St. George.
• A viewing will be Friday, 6-7:30 p.m. and Saturday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the services at the mortuary.
• Interment will take place in the Santa Clara Cemetery.

The family expresses deepest appreciation to Beehive Homes and Applegate Homecare and Hospice for their sincere personal and professional care.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary.

The post  Joey Maxine Covington Frei appeared first on St George News.

(September 17, 1926 – 2015)

Warren T. Christensen (Chris) was born in the small South Dakota town of Viborg on September 17, 1926.

Although he lost his father at the age of 18 months, he became one of the shining stars from Viborg and traveled the world over as a Merchant Marine

He practiced medicine for thirty five years in San Jose, California. One of his favorite memories being how he successfully delivered a one-pound baby girl who grew to adulthood.

Shortly before retiring, he met his future wife, Lucia in Washington, D.C., while attending his annual Republican Inner Circle meeting. Their first date was at the Fifth Estate Restaurant in the National Press Club.

They married in Las Vegas on the Fourth of July and settled in St. George, Utah, where they shared 20 happy years.

Sometimes life takes us full circle, and Warren is now on his way back to South Dakota to his final resting place. He will be accompanied by his wife, Lucia and their son, Michael.

Funeral Services

• A viewing will be Wednesday, August 18, 6-8 p.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff, St. George, Utah.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

The post Warren T. Christensen appeared first on St George News.

(November 14, 1931 – August 15, 2015)

Mary Coleman Milliner passed away with the same courage and grace with which she lived her life on Saturday, August 15, 2015, in Ivins, Utah. She was born on November 14, 1931, in Heber City, Utah, to Delbert T. and Sylvia Neilsen Coleman.

She married Shirman Milliner on November 23, 1954, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple.

She was an educator for over 45 years, influencing many young lives. Mary was an active member of the LDS Church, serving as the pianist and organist for most of her life.

Mary was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She unconditionally loved each family member and found great joy by knitting together the hearts of those whom she loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, William, Keith and Tom Coleman; and brother-in-law, Ron Hiatt.

Mary is survived by her loving husband, Shirman; daughters, Carrie (James) Morrell of St. George, Marty (Bryan) Richmond and Dana (Robert) Earl both of Salt Lake City; nine grandchildren and four adored great-grandchildren; brother, Joseph (Joyce) Coleman; sisters, Kathyrn Hiatt and Shirley (Ed) Trimble; and sisters-in-law, Shanna Van Wagoner, Bonnie Coleman, Mary Jo Adamson and Leila Coleman.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Tuesday, August 18, at 1 p.m. in the Heber City 6th Ward LDS Chapel, 1365 E. Center Street, Heber.
• Friends may call Tuesday, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the chapel, prior to services.
• Interment will be in the Heber City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George, 435-673-2454.

The post Mary Coleman Milliner appeared first on St George News.

(November 16, 1953 – August 12, 2015)

Larry D. Rodgers, 61, lost his battle against cancer, which he fought with great courage, on Wednesday, August 12, 2015, with his loving and caring wife by his side.

Larry was born November 16, 1953, in Riverton, Wyoming, to James C. and Myrna J. Rodgers. He was the loving and devoted husband to Joni for 28 years. They were married May 16, 1987, in Glenrock, Wyoming.

He was raised in Cody, Wyoming, and attended college in Pocatello, Idaho, attaining a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Larry worked for the State of Wyoming for 23 years before relocating to Mesquite, Nevada, where he worked in the casino industry until he retired due to health issues in May 2013.

Larry loved his family and friends and cherished the time with them. Friends and family have described him as a person with a kind and gentle soul with a heart of gold, very patient, understanding and devoted husband, father, and friend. His daughter, Andrea describes him as the best father and advisor to her family. His son. Justin describes him as loving, supportive, very intelligent, thoughtful and pretty darn tough. He will be greatly missed by all.

Larry is survived by his wife Joni of Mesquite, Nevada; son Justin Rodgers, Casper, Wyoming; daughter Andrea Rodgers, Garden Grove, California; grandchildren, Skylar, Samantha and, Bryce; mother Myrna Rodgers, Cody, Wyoming; brother David Rodgers, Cody, Wyoming; sister Carol (Karl) Butler, Cody, Wyoming; brother Brian (Anna) Rodgers, Powell, Wyoming; nephew Jeff; nieces Jennifer and Kourtnie.

He is preceded in death by sister, Janet Durand; and father, James C. Rodgers.

Funeral Services

• Memorial services will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mesa View Hospice, 330 Falcon Ridge Pkwy, Building 200 Suite A, Mesquite, NV 89027.

The family would like to thank the kind and dedicated Hospice team and all of the medical providers that assisted in his care along this journey.

Friends and family are invited to sign Larry’s guest book at the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

The post Larry D. Rodgers appeared first on St George News.

(November 8, 1936 – August 17, 2015)

Wanda Lehman, 78, passed away on Monday, August 17, 2015, at Dixie Regional Medical Center in St. George, Utah. She was born November 8, 1936, in Rosebud, Texas, to Archie and Myrtle Henson. She married George Benjamin Moore on July 10, 1956. They were later divorced. She married Edwin V. Stephenson in 1974; he preceded her in death. She married Arnold Lehman in 1988. He also preceded her in death.

Wanda was a professional woman and worked as a secretary, bookkeeper, and receptionist for many years. She loved doing crossword puzzles and watching mystery shows on television. She was an avid reader. When she was younger she sang in her church choir.

In 2001, she moved to Centennial Park to live with her daughter Lucy. Wanda loved her family and was dedicated to making a meaningful contribution to them in her everyday life. She took many people into her heart as honorary children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was particularly fond of little children and they brought her a great deal of joy, especially in her last days.

She is survived by her daughters Lucy (Thomas) Knudson of Centennial Park, and Mary Gillen of Mountain Ranch, California; her son Robert Moore of Boise, Idaho; two sisters, Lucille Hull of Sherman, Texas, and Peggy Hamilton of Lott, Texas;  two brothers, Arthur Henson of Madisonville, Texas, and Joseph Henson also of Madisonville; eight grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, spouses, and brother John Henson.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held privately and interment will take place in the Centennial Park cemetery.

The family wishes to give special thanks to the hospital staff and hospice services of Intermountain Health Care in St. George for the caring and kindness shown during Wanda’s illness.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, 435-673-2454.

The post Wanda Lehman appeared first on St George News.

(December 1, 1916 – August 22, 2015)

Annie McArthur Jennings, beloved matriarch of a large, extended family passed away quietly on Saturday, August 22, 2015, of causes incident to age. She lived 98 years full of joy and vitality.

Born in St. George, December 1, 1916, Annie was the sixth of ten children born to Moroni  McArthur and Emma Jarvis Cottam. Born in the family home on the corner of 100 South and 500 East, she lived her entire life within a block of that residence.  A genuine daughter of Utah’s Dixie, she valued and represented the finest attributes of her pioneer heritage and zealously endeavored to pass along those ideals to her posterity.

In her childhood, Annie was an eager participant in the daily antics of her brothers and assisted her older sisters in household tasks. She was close to both parents, and thrived in the organized chaos that was part of a large family with a meager income in a small town.  As a teenager, Annie worked in the Quality Bakery owned by her Uncle James McArthur.

Annie was educated in the local schools and graduated from Dixie High in 1935.  At their graduation dance, she noticed and was charmed by another graduate, Leon Jennings. He owned his own truck.  An extended stay in Washington D.C. helping her Aunt and Uncle did not diminish the feelings Leon and Annie had for each other. They married for time and eternity in the St.George LDS Temple on June 24, 1937.

Leon built them a small house one block south of the McArthurs and Annie made it a life-long sanctuary.  As their family arrived and needs increased, Leon continued to add onto the original structure, which is still standing. Their home was always Annie’s pride and joy.

She spent every available hour outside doing yardwork, growing, weeding, and harvesting her garden, raising a cow, chickens and pigs, and tending her vineyards. Her special love was flowers of all varieties, especially roses.  Her calendar was meticulously marked every five days and six hours: the watering turn.  Irrigation was a solemn, undeviating opportunity and obligation.

Their marriage was blessed with five children:  Margery Ann, Mansfield Leon, John M, Marie, and Gilbert M.    Annie raised her family incorporating the basic tenets of her own childhood which included hard work, thrift, respect for nature, dignity, educational excellence, esteem for beauty, developing personal talents, maintaining family relationships, and most of all, a continuing, growing love of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Annie was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and worked tirelessly to promote the programs of the church.  She worked in all auxiliaries with a particular love for Primary and Junior Sunday School.  She supported her husband in his church callings.  She particularly enjoyed the time she and Leon served as Ordinance Workers in the St. George Temple. Her life and character reflected her testimony.

In addition to church activity, Annie was also involved in community organizations. She was a committed member of the Dixie/Manomus Andrus Camp of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers and served dependably many years as a guide in the DUP Museum.

She loved reading and participated in the Dixie Reviewers. The Literary Arts group honored her as one of their annual Orchid Ladies. Annie was a gifted artist, studying with Ralph Huntsman and refining her craft regularly with fellow artist friends. She was a member of the Dixie Garden Club as well as a capable and avid quilter. Afternoons or evenings around a quilt were punctuated with the enthusiastic cry, “We’re ready to roll!”

The Jennings participated in Rotary activities and Annie was a charter member of the Rotary Anns.  A highlight of every fall was the Dixie Roundup, with Annie organizing and entering parade floats.   During their retirement years, Leon and Annie spent memorable time traveling, via camper or trailer, with the local Over-the-Hill Gang. They forged life-long, enriching, friendships. These community leaders supported and recognized the importance of Dixie College (University).  In 1994, Annie was awarded an Honorary Degree.  The Jennings Technical Building on campus is a memorial to their dedication.

Aunt Annie was the perpetual “go to” hostess for extended family birthday and holiday celebrations.  She was known for her generosity and resourcefulness and could make a pot of Sloppy Joes go a long way. Visiting relatives or friends could always find a comfortable place to sleep and a home-cooked meal at her home. In fact, anyone could find most anything they needed at Aunt Annie—Grandma J’s, including buttons, genealogy, tools, pictures and relics of all kinds.  If they were really lucky, they’d go home with a jar of her personally-shelled pecans.

In her slowing-down years, she supplied endless dried fruit, cookies, homemade bread and suckers to visiting grandchildren, their children, and their grandchildren.  At her home, the little ones played with games their parents and grandparents had enjoyed along with a bushel basket of wooden spools. Grandma was an eager, appreciative audience for any talent, anecdote, or item of interest. Her “Annie-isms” are almost as binding as her gospel truths. They include: “Waste not, want not,” “Hoe to the end of the row,” “The less said, the quicker mended,” and “Smile and the world smiles with you. Frown and you frown alone.” Her cheerful smile will be long-remembered, and her influence cherished.

Annie McArthur Jennings was preceded in death by her loyal husband of 58 years, Lloyd Leon Jennings, one son-in-law, Walter Rice, three grand daughters, Linda Peterson Dexter, Mary Ann Jennings and Laralyn Jennings Schramm. Annie now joins her parents Moroni and Emma McArthur, and siblings Willard, Nellie M. Gubler, Florence M. Leavitt,  Fern M. Hafen , Rex, Irvin,  Ross, Eldon, and Thomas.

Survivors include children Margery Ann (Paul) Peterson of American Fork, Mansfield Leon (Diane) Jennings, St. George, Dr. John M. (Suzanne) Jennings, St. George, Marie (Walter) Rice, St. George, and Gilbert M. (Leslie) Jennings of Pine Valley. She is also survived by 27 grandchildren, 93 great grandchildren, five great, great, grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family offers their most sincere appreciation to the staff and those associated with the Beehive House on River Road.  Though it never was Annie’s residence-of-choice, they worked attentively to provide for her personal needs during her declining health. The family also acknowledges with deepest gratitude the years of service rendered daily by Marie, a daughter and next-door neighbor who made it possible for Mother to remain in the home she loved for as long as she could.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 29, at 11 a.m. at the St. George 5th and 6th Ward Chapel, 85 S. 400 East, St. George.
• There will be a viewing Friday, from 6-8 p.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff, St. George, and Saturday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the church.
• Interment will take place in the St. George City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454

The post Annie McArthur Jennings appeared first on St George News.

(1931 – August 22, 2015)

Mary Ellen Purdy Vanalstine, age 84, passed away in Ivins, Utah, on August 22, 2015.

Funeral Services

• Memorial services will be held on Saturday, August 29, 8:30 a.m. at the gazebo at Red Mountain Spa, 1275 E. Red Mountain Circle, Ivins.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary.

The post Mary Ellen Purdy Vanalstine appeared first on St George News.

(August 1, 1924 – September 10, 2015)

Kent Albert Hansen, age 91, passed away Thursday, September 10, 2015.  He was born in Clay Springs, Arizona, on August 1, 1924, to Charles Francis and Clarissa Amy (Perkins) Hansen.

Kent was a World War II veteran and served in the Pacific Theater. He married Eula Blake on September 25, 1948. He and his wife, Eula were both raised in St. George. They were residents of Beaver until 1962, where he taught school.

Kent and Eula raised their family primarily in the Las Vegas area where he taught elementary school until he retired in 1986. In 1996 they moved to Ivins. In the past few years they both resided in an assisted living residence in St. George.

Kent loved to play his guitar and sing songs, pick pinenuts, and watch sports. When he retired, he took up running and entered many races and got his whole family involved in running and racing.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Eula in March 2013. He is survived by their five sons and their wives-Kipling and Gwendolyn in Las Vegas, Kris and Jessie in Toquerville, Steve and Suzanne in St. George, Loren and Susan in Las Vegas, and Kurtis and MaryJane in Sandy.

He is also survived by 25 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and a brother, Robin Hansen, Sr.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Saturday, Sept. 19, at 11 a.m. in the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff, St. George.
• A viewing will be Friday, 6-7:30 p.m. and Saturday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the mortuary.
• Interment will take place in the Ivins City Cemetery.

The family wishes to acknowledge the special care given by the staff of Beehive Homes Assisted Living and are grateful for the hospice services provided by Intermountain Senior Care.

Arrangements have been made under direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

The post Kent A. Hansen appeared first on St George News.

(May 7, 1933 – September 10, 2015)

Gale C. Hamelwright, age 82, passed away at the Southern Utah Veterans Home on September 10, 2015. Loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was born to Cloy Hamelwright and Hazel Gunderson in Kenilworth, Utah, on May 7, 1933.

Gale grew up in Carbon County, graduated from Carbon High School. He married his childhood sweetheart, Jeniene Young, on March 14, 1952, in the Salt Lake City Temple.

Gale served honorably for four years in the United States Air Force during the Korean War; graduated from BYU in 1960 in Mechanical Engineering. His career was spent with Hewlett Packard in Loveland and Fort Collins, Colorado and in Boise, Idaho. He then retired after 29 years of service with HP. He spent 5 years with Iomega Corporation in Roy, Utah. Gale and Jeniene retired to St. George, Utah in 1984.

Gale was a sterling example of faith, fortitude, fun, and love for family, friends and all people. Gale was dynamic in all aspects of his life. He served in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a Branch President, Bishop, High Counselor, Young Men’s President (his favorite), Stake Missionary, Service Missionary, and Family History mission (his 2nd favorite) and he was a fabulous teacher!

He is survived by his wife, Jeniene, daughter, Keri (Brian) Morris, daughter Kristy Hamelwright, daughter-in-law, Roxanne Hamelwright, eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by son, Arthur G. Hamelwright and son, Mark C. Hamelwright and his parents, Cloy and Hazel.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Saturday, Sept. 19, 11 a.m. at the For Pierce Chapel, 750 E. Fort Pierce Drive, St. George
• A viewing will be held Friday, 6:-7:30 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff Street, St. George and Saturday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Fort Pierce Chapel prior to services.
• Interment will be in the Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 S. Dixie Drive, St. George.

Friends and family are invited to sign Gale’s guest book at the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

A special thanks to Essential Care (Elsie); Southern Utah Veteran’s Home; and Journey of Hope Hospice (Leslie, Kathy, Susan Ann, and Amanda).

The post Gale C. Hamelwright appeared first on St George News.

(July 7, 1919 – September 15, 2015)

Lorraine Mason Johnson was taken home to the God who gave her life on September 15, 2015, at the age of 96.

Lorraine was born July 7, 1919, in Aurora, Utah, the oldest daughter of William Gerald Mason and Inez Curfew Mason.

As she later wrote to a grandson, “I’m sure it won’t surprise you if I say that I have always had a testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ…I was born into the church and I gradually learned its’ teachings at home, in Sunday School, and Primary. I had no reason to ever doubt it and I can say that I know it is all true.”

Lorraine lived her life accordingly. She attended Brigham Young University and taught first and second grade and music in Aurora. She later wrote, “What a thrill it was to guide the children through their first years of learning, to watch their progress and feel their enthusiasm.”

After the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941, Lorraine and some friends journeyed to Seattle where they helped the war effort by working for Boeing. Lorraine met Staff Sergeant Grant Douglas Johnson, also a Utah native, at church.

“As soon as I saw him, I knew I wanted to get acquainted with him,” she later wrote.  They dated and became engaged. Grant was assigned to a B-17 crew and flew 38 missions from England over Europe. After Grant’s safe return they were married in September 1944 in the St. George Temple. Grant and Lorraine settled in St. George, Utah where Grant owned and operated the Dixie Jewel shop on Main Street.

St. George was Lorraine’s home for 70 years. Lorraine was a devoted mother to their four children: Lynn, Lynda, Karla, and Karl and an inspirational and beloved grandmother to her 26 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren and 7 ¾ great-great grandchildren.

She loved her family and they loved her. Her grandchildren were the most important part of her life and they will miss her loving support. She also had many adopted grandchildren and she loved and appreciated all they did for her.

Lorraine loved serving in church callings and especially enjoyed visiting teaching. She was a substitute teacher in the St. George elementary school for 30 years and also taught seminary. Lorraine loved to write and won awards for her work (for example, an essay sharing fond recollections of trips to Fish Lake) from the Utah Writer’s Guild among others.

Lorraine also loved working on family history. “I think that I appreciate the Gospel more now, than when I was younger,” she wrote to a granddaughter. “I also feel a greater gratitude to my ancestors who accepted the Gospel many years ago and remained faithful through the sufferings demanded of the early pioneers. That is perhaps the main reason that I have spent years collecting the histories of my ancestors and distributing them. I hope by doing this that they will know of my love and gratitude to them. All that I am I owe to these wonderful people and to their faithfulness as well as to the Lord who has blessed me so much.”

We express a special thank you to the staff and residents of Spring Gardens who blessed our mother’s life the past few years. We appreciate all you did to help her go from independent to assisted living. You made the transition easy.

Lorraine is survived by children: Lynn Douglas (Carol Sue); Lynda (Ronald) Bracken; Karla (Asa) Nielson; J Karl (Linda) Johnson; brothers: Kenneth (Elnora) Mason; Elroy (Tess) Mason; Leon (Kay, deceased) Mason; and sister-in-law: Donna Bell. She is also survived by brother-in-law, Sheldon (LaVerna) Johnson, and sister-in-law, Gladys (John) Palmer; as well as nieces and nephews Carma Lee (Dean) Nielson, Shirley (Doug) Hendricks, John (Marchelle) Aird, Mike (Doris) Johnson, and Sheila Johnson who lost their mothers before their time and developed a fond relationship with Lorraine.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband, Grant Douglas Johnson; her mother and father, Gerald and Inez Mason; sisters, Arline Mason and Carma Aird; and her brothers, Marvin (Donna) and Bernell Mason; mother and father-in-law, Joseph and Mabel Johnson; brothers-in-law, Mark (Hannah) Johnson; Mazel (Maureen) Johnson; and sister-in-law Metta (Van) George.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Sept. 26, at 11 a.m. in the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff, St. George.
• A viewing will be Saturday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the chapel.
• Interment will take place in the St. George City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

The post Lorraine Mason Johnson appeared first on St George News.

(February 22, 1940 – September 16, 2015)

Jimmie Vernon Schmutz, age 75, passed away September 16, 2015, in St. George. He was born to Ashby and Afton Batty Schmutz on February 22, 1940, in St. George.

Jimmie married Sharon Holt and later divorced. He married Jody Lynn Humphries who preceded him in death in 2008.

Jimmie, known as Art, was born, raised and educated, living his entire life in St. George. He graduated from Dixie High School and attended Dixie Jr. College. Art served in the U.S Army.

Art was a hard worker. He worked for Leo Holt in the construction business. Then for Mt. Bell, until his retirement. Art was known around town as the telephone man.

Art loved the outdoors; fishing, golfing, hunting arrowheads, camping and deer hunting. He also enjoyed swim parties with his grandchildren and motorcycles. Art had many close friends. He was quiet, reserved and easy going.

Art truly loved his family and living in Southern Utah.

He is survived by his children, Kevin Ronald of Santa Clara, Ashby James “A.J.” (Crystal) of Washington, Jason of Missoula, MT, Michelle Jensen of St. George and Christine Tupea of Washington; 12 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ashby and Afton Schmutz; grandparents, Walter and Emily Schmutz; and wife, Jody Lynn Schmutz.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 11 a.m. in the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff, St. George.
• There will be a viewing Monday, 6-7 p.m. and also Tuesday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the Mortuary.
• Interment will take place in the Washington City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

The post Jimmie Vernon Schmutz appeared first on St George News.

(February 22, 1940 – September 16, 2015)

Jimmie Vernon Schmutz, age 75, passed away September 16, 2015, in St. George. He was born to Ashby and Afton Batty Schmutz on February 22, 1940, in St. George.

Jimmie married Sharon Holt and later divorced. He married Jody Lynn Humphries who preceded him in death in 2008.

Jimmie, known as Art, was born, raised and educated, living his entire life in St. George. He graduated from Dixie High School and attended Dixie Jr. College. Art served in the U.S. Army.

Art was a hard worker. He worked for Leo Holt in the construction business. Then for Mt. Bell, until his retirement. Art was known around town as the telephone man.

Art loved the outdoors; fishing, golfing, hunting arrowheads, camping and deer hunting. He also enjoyed swim parties with his grandchildren and motorcycles. Art had many close friends. He was quiet, reserved and easy going.

Art truly loved his family and living in Southern Utah.

He is survived by his children, Kevin Ronald of Santa Clara, Ashby James “A.J.” (Crystal) of Washington, Jason of Missoula, MT, Michelle Jensen of St. George and Christine Tupea of Washington; 12 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ashby and Afton Schmutz; grandparents, Walter and Emily Schmutz; and wife, Jody Lynn Schmutz.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 11 a.m. in the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff, St. George.
• There will be a viewing Monday, 6-7 p.m. and also Tuesday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the Mortuary.
• Interment will take place in the Washington City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

The post Jimmie Vernon Schmutz appeared first on St George News.

(August 15, 1994 – September 11, 2015)

Brian Herbert Timpson, 21, passed away Friday, September 11, 2015. He was born August 15, 1994, in Colorado City, Arizona, to Mark and Anna (Zitting) Timpson.

Brian was raised in Centennial Park, Arizona, and graduated with the Centennial Park Academy Class of 2012. After spending approximately three years as a plumber’s apprentice, he recently moved to Washington City to explore the world of stock investing and internet marketing entrepreneurship in partnership with his father.

His passions included gaming, sports and being out in nature. Some of his best memories were of family vacations and camping trips. He could be quite competitive and excelled at everything he did. Brian was quiet, humble, a very deep thinker and had no use for conflict.

He was very close with everyone in his class and was unintentionally known to be a ladies’ man. Being an encouragement to others was one of his greatest strengths, and he always had a way of connecting with people. Brian always knew just what to say (funny or serious) and was skilled in the art of winning friends and influencing people. He was intensely loved by all his family, friends, teachers and co-workers.

He is survived by his parents and family members: Mark, Anna, Quinette, Vilate, Gladys (Sterling) Steed, Louise (Patrick) Dockstader, Megan, Mark Anthony, Vivian, Albert and Sean. He is preceded in death by many family members (grandparents, uncles and cousins), whom we know will take care of him.

“I love to be alone. I never found the companion that was so companionable as solitude.” ~Henry David Thoreau

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 2 p.m. in the Centennial Park Chapel, Centennial Park, Arizona.
• Friends may call Tuesday, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Centennial Park Chapel.
• Interment will be in the Centennial Park Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George, 435-673-2454.

The post Brian Herbert Timpson appeared first on St George News.

(1939 – September 15, 2015)

Darlene McGoldrick, age 76, passed away September 15, 2015, in St. George. She was born in Richfield, to her parents, Brooks B. and Phebe Zona Palmer Wilkensen.

She grew up in Caldwell, Idaho, until the age of 17 when she moved to Woodland, California. There she married Layton McGoldrick and raised her sons, Rickey, Daniel and Shane.

Upon the death of her mother, Darlene moved to St. George, where she has resided for the last 17 years.

Darlene was an active member of the LDS Church.

She is survived by her sons, Rickey of Las Vegas, Nevada, Daniel of Palos Verdes, California, and Shane of Mesa, Arizona; and granddaughters, Lilian McGoldrick, Brandi Nicole Swift and soon-to-arrive Brooklyn Longshore.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Brooks B. Wilkinson and Phebe Zona Palmer Wilkinson; and brother, Gary Wilkinson.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 4 p.m. in the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, St. George.
• A visitation will be Wednesday, 3-4 p.m. at the mortuary chapel.
• Interment will take place at a later date in Woodland, California.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George, 435-673-2454.

The post Darlene McGoldrick appeared first on St George News.

April 25, 1944 – September 18, 2015

Gail Irene Hardcastle, 71, passed away September 18, 2015. She was born April 25, 1944, in Tampa, Florida, to Henry Ellis Whitaker and Ethel Irene King Whitaker.

Gail married Dewey Hardcastle on September 27, 1976, in California and they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Santa Monica Temple in Los Angeles, California, June 8, 1978. They later moved to Hurricane, Utah, in 1982.

She was an outgoing woman who loved every type of adventure, never turning away a chance for new experiences. She loved to travel all over the world, but felt the most joy when outdoors, right here in Southern Utah, especially while horseback riding.

Gail had a strong business sense about her and always seemed to have some new business venture going, with other ideas on the side line waiting for the right time. She successfully opened and operated the Sunset West Bowling Center for many years before selling it, enabling her the time she needed to selflessly care for her husband in his final years.

Gail had a deep love for her grandchildren and enjoyed having many adventures with them. She, along with her husband, enjoyed many outdoor activities, such as boating and waterskiing, snow skiing, hiking, and especially horseback riding. Together they traveled many of the trails in beautiful southern Utah, often taking the time to visit with people she met along the way.

Gail served in many positions in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and loved to serve as a temple worker serving the patrons. She most recently enjoyed serving in the family history center. One of her greatest talents in this life was serving others. She was always ready and willing to help anyone around who needed her.

She is survived by her mother, Ethel Whitaker; brothers, Richard and Doug Whitaker; sister, Wendy Hatfield; son, Kevin Gardner; eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Gail was preceded in death by her father, Henry Whitaker; daughter, Kim Judd; husband, Dewey Hardcastle; and sister, Lynn Lister.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Friday, Sept. 25, at 11 a.m. at the Hurricane 10th Ward Chapel, 1178 S. 700 West, Hurricane.
• Friends may visit Friday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the services at the chapel.
• Interment will take place in the Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Gail’s guestbook.

The post Gail Hardcastle appeared first on St George News.

December 7, 1919 – September 18, 2015

Earl Harry Wood, age 95, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2015, in St. George, Utah. He was born on December 7, 1919, in Garland, Utah, to Wallace Harry and Mabel Hadley Wood.

He was the second of four sons born to this family under very humble circumstances. There were many hard years growing up. However, dad’s work ethic got him through those challenging years of the ’20s, ’30s and ’40s as he worked to help feed his family and then put himself through school. During the war, he worked as a telegrapher for the Southern Pacific Railroad, which he loved.

On April 3, 1941, he married his best friend’s girlfriend, Lorraine B. House, in the Logan Temple. Their first home was an old railroad boxcar situated on a small piece of ground between the railroad track and the Great Salt Lake in a place called Bridge. Their bed was a door supported by two sawhorses with a very thin mattress, but they had good bedding to keep them warm. Often, he could be seen swinging a signal lantern in the middle of the night as the trains came by. Two years later, on April 6, 1943, their first child was born and they were a family.

After the war ended, they bought a dairy farm in Slaterville, Utah, where their family grew to five children. Dad loved farming, but after 11 years his back was bothering him so they moved into Ogden where he began working for the U.S. Postal Service. He was a hard worker and taught his family to work hard and never go into debt.

In 1962, they purchased the Sunset Motel in St. George. Again, dad started working for the post office, where he received an award for superior performance. Between the post office and the motel, they were plenty busy.

Dad loved to perform and had parts in many plays growing up. Later, he would memorize stories and jokes and always had them on hand to share at a ward function, etc. He had many church callings, but his favorite was teaching the Gospel Doctrine class. He loved dancing, either tap or ballroom, and could really put on a show.

After many trips to Yellowstone and Brookings, Oregon, mom passed away following a severe stroke. At the same time, dad had a heart attack and was sent to Salt Lake City for surgery. The recovery took time; however, you can’t keep a good man down and soon he was back to his old self.

He began attending some singles functions where he met Ella Lue Watts, and a beautiful friendship ensued. On April 26, 2003, they were married and have been wonderful companions since, even though illnesses and old age were upon them.

Earl is survived by his sweet wife Ella Lue of St. George, Janet Carter (Lloyd), Gary Earl Wood (Linda), Danny Bruce Wood (Julie), Wendy Barnum (David) and Paula Wood, 16 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren.

The family would like to especially thank all those who helped care for him at Platinum Care, the wonderful hospice workers and Dr. Kent McDonald.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Sept. 26, at 2 p.m. at the Spilsbury Funeral Home at 110 S. Bluff St. in St. George.
• A viewing will be Saturday, 12:30 p.m., prior to services at the funeral home.
• Interment will follow at the St. George Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

The post Earl Harry Wood appeared first on St George News.

December 7, 1928 – September 22, 2015

Surrounded by her adoring family, Betty Lucille Holloway Caplin peacefully passed away on September 22, 2015.  Betty was born December 7, 1928, in Miami, Florida, to William Carl and Eva Lucille Lounsbury Holloway.

Betty’s early years in South Florida were simple and filled with the wonders of a pristine tropical paradise. Betty’s father was a southern cowboy and lawman. Their family, in part, lived off the land and plentiful harvests from Florida’s rivers and oceans.

Betty’s love for the beauties of the earth — from southern beaches to the Rocky Mountains — was well known to her family and friends. For many years, Betty led her small children on camping and fishing excursions across the state. She taught each of her children to swim, to fish and to love Jesus Christ.

Betty’s parents were southern pioneer converts to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The family homestead was in the middle of what is now the Church Ranch in Florida. Betty loved the Church of Jesus Christ with all of her heart.

It was no small undertaking to maintain her devotion to Jesus Christ as she experienced the ultimate “opposites attract” scenario in marrying her Eternal sweetheart — Harvey Caplin, a first generation Russian-American Jew from New York City. Betty’s example and love were instrumental in Harvey’s conversion to Christianity.

Together they loved and lived the gospel of Jesus Christ for decades and enjoyed serving in the church and temple. They also practiced the law and tradition of the Torah, especially the mandate to the House of Israel to “…love the stranger as ‘Thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” Their home and assets were always open to everyone in need.

Harvey and Betty truly complimented one another as husband and wife, father and mother for 55 years before Harvey passed away in 2007. They loved and worked hard to help and bless their five children: Ronald (Jan), Steven (Toni), Michael, Alan (Jennifer) and Julie Williamson (Tim).

Betty was a gifted musician and served as a ward and stake organist for many years. She was a natural and loving leader and served faithfully especially in the Relief Society and Young Women programs of the Church.

A voracious reader, Betty loved to entertain her children when traveling by reading short stories and novels. Her favorite work was the Book of Mormon, which she studied and drew knowledge and strength from continually.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harvey; brothers, William and Robert; and sister Mary. She is survived by her beloved children; sister Patricia Baker of Ocala, Florida; and sisters-in-law, Marilyn Caplin and Sonia Bochner of Miami, Florida

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Sept. 26, 3 p.m. at the LDS chapel, 3680 Pioneer Parkway, Santa Clara, Utah.
• Visitations will be Saturday, 1:30-2:30 p.m., prior to services at the chapel.
• Interment will occur at Tonaquint Cemetery, St. George.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110. Bluff Street, St. George, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to offer their condolences online.

The post Betty Lucille Caplin appeared first on St George News.

March 3, 1936 – September 25, 2015

Ann Fonda Lester Beatty of Hurricane, passed away on September 25, 2015. Anna was born to Dee Lester and Nora Dalton on March 3, 1936, in Rockville, Utah. She married Clayton (Owen) Beatty on October 6, 1951, in the St. George LDS Temple. Together they raised four children: Dianna, Dennis, David and Deone.

Anna grew up in Rockville, Utah, and later moved to Hurricane after her marriage to Clayton. They then moved up North, living in Sandy, Utah; Twin Falls, Idaho; and North Ogden, Utah, before returning to family and friends in Hurricane where she and Clayton retired.

Anna was an avid gardener and landscaper. She could make almost anything grow and flourish, even in the worst conditions.

Anna was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. When family visited the first thing everyone asked for was a piece of grandma’s chocolate cake.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Dianna; brother Gaylord and sisters Eleanor, and Shirley.

She is survived by her husband, Clayton; her children Dennis, David and Deone (Rick) Judkins; leaving behind six grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services

• Graveside services will be held Tuesday, Sept. 29, at 11 a.m. in the Hurricane City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George 435-673-2454.

The post Anna Fonda Lester Beatty appeared first on St George News.