Emery Stephen Huggins

August 12, 1942 — October 27, 2024

Emery Stephen Huggins, 82, died peacefully, Sunday, October 27th with his loving wife by his side.

Steve was born August 12, 1942, in the Cooley Hospital in Brigham City, Utah to Emery Holman and Helen Fishburn Huggins. The third of five children.

Steve learned to work hard on the family farm. Hoeing sugar beets with a custom-made hoe at the age of 3, following his mom and sisters up the rows. He loved farming and would do that his entire life.

Steve served in the United States Air Force from 1963-1967 and was deployed overseas to Vietnam and the Philippines. He was proud of his service to his country. It was here Steve developed a deep love of airplanes leading to a 34-year career at Hill Air Force Base.

Steve met his wife Janet Balls through a childhood friend, and they married November 28, 1969, later sealed in the Ogden Temple November 28, 1978. They were blessed with four children Tyler Stephen Huggins (deceased), Timothy Jason Huggins, Darin Lee Huggins, and Jana Lyn Huggins.

Steven enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends and the wonderful memories they would create.

Steve is survived by his wife Janet; sons Tim Huggins and Darin Huggins; daughter Jana Lyn Beston; sisters Marilyn Durfey and Jeanne (Mike) Allen; and brother Frank Huggins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Pat Eskelson and son Tyler Huggins.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at 11 A.M. Viewings will be held on Monday, November 4, 2024, from 5-7 P.M. and prior to the service from 9:30-10:30 A.M. All services will be held at the Bear River City Church (5870 N 4700 W- Bear River City). Interment will take place in the Bear River City Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed and may be accessed below.

Special thanks to the many friends he met along the way.

 

David Richard Christensen

April 12, 1942 — October 17, 2024

Brigham City, Utah

David Richard Christensen, 82, passed away peacefully at his home in Brigham City, Utah, on October 17, 2024, surrounded by his loving family after a valiant battle with cancer.

Dave was born in Brigham City on April 12, 1942, to Richard Sorensen Christensen and Leone Bunnell Bunot. On April 17, 1964, he married the love of his life, Kathryn Miller, in the Logan Utah LDS Temple. Together, they raised six amazing children: Calvin David (Misty), Kristi Ray Goldsberry (Brett), Cindy Gadberry (Kirk), Michael Richard, Melanie Hershfeldt (Steve), and Gregory John (MaryAnn). Dave was also a proud grandfather of 24 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Dave served a mission in the East Central States and fulfilled numerous church callings throughout his life. His deep love for the gospel and his family were always at the heart of everything he did.

Dave discovered his passion for radio at the age of 16 when he became an announcer and DJ for KBUH. His radio career spanned 14 years across various stations, and his iconic “radio voice” continued to be a staple in the community, often used for church and community programs. He was also one of the founders of the Heritage Theatre, where he devoted over 40 years acting, directing, running the lighting and sound, and designing programs.

In addition to his community involvement, Dave had many hobbies that brought him joy. He loved reading, music, computers, photography, carpentry, and creating model boats, cars, and trains. He also enjoyed building and operating radio-controlled planes and cars.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Judith Ann. He is survived by his wife Kathryn, his six children, his brother Jon (Linda), and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held on Friday, October 25th, at 11:00 AM at the Brigham City 19th Ward, located at 105 Fishburn Drive. Friends and family may gather for a viewing on Thursday, October 24th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Gillies Funeral Home, as well as prior to the service on Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at the church. Services will also be broadcast live via Zoom at: zoom.us/j/98607541406

 

Margaret Ann Baird Tomany

Margaret Baird Tomany passed away at her home with her family by her side on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 after battling pulmonary fibrosis and Alzheimer’s disease. Margaret Ann Baird was born on February 15, 1942, the oldest of 5 children born to Don Johnson Baird and Beth Wallace Baird, in Murray, UT. While she was still a young child, the family moved to Brigham City, UT, where she lived most of her life. Margaret was close to her sister and brothers and many cousins, and they spent time outdoors camping, riding horses, and fishing. She learned to hunt at a young age and was a crack shot. Margaret graduated from Box Elder High School in 1960 and attended Brigham Young University, graduating as a Registered Nurse in 1964. While working as a nurse in Los Angeles, CA, she met Michael Leonard Tomany. After a short courtship, they were married for time and all eternity in the Logan Temple on November 17, 1967. Margaret and Mike made their home in Brigham City, and were blessed with six children, 23 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Margaret was a very talented homemaker and a lifelong learner, excelling at sewing, cooking, gardening, and woodworking. She worked at Cooley Memorial Hospital and Brigham City Community Hospital as a Labor and Delivery Nurse, retiring in 2008, when she ‘started delivering babies of babies she delivered.’ Margaret was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served in many callings. She had a strong testimony of Jesus Christ and loved serving her brothers and sisters. She and her husband served an LDS mission in Ft Sill, Oklahoma, working with the soldiers there. Margaret is survived by her husband, Michael Leonard Tomany; her children Jennifer (Russell) LeBaron of Hurricane, UT; Michael ‘Mick’ (Kathryn) Tomany of Liberty Lake, WA; Anemarie (Christian) Sutch of Brigham City, UT; Zina (Frank) Dankwa of Syracuse, UT; Carrie Beth Tomany of Harrisville, UT; and Margaret ‘Meg’ (Chad) Shoop of Nibley, UT, as well as 22 grand-children and one great-grand-son. She is also survived by her brother, Don Wallace ‘Wally’ (Susie) Baird, and two sisters-in-law, LeAnn Baird and Colleen Baird. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Beth Sherratt and Don J Baird, her sister, Mary Beth Pollack, her brothers, J Michael Baird and F. Dee Baird, and one grandson, Brigham VarSelle Tomany. Margaret was a loving, compassionate woman who will be missed by many. Thanks to Dr. Lynn Beard, Dr. Mary Beth Scholand, and Symbii Home Health and Hospice. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Brigham City 25th Ward, 865 S 300 W., Brigham City, Utah. Viewings will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Gillies Funeral Chapel, 634 E 200 S., Brigham City, Utah and on Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 am at the church. Interment will be held at the Utah Veterans Memorial Park in Bluffdale, Utah at a later date.

Jack “H” Molgard

16 April 1942 – 12 July 2024 Jack “H” Molgard, 82, quickly and quietly passed away sitting in the shade of his cabin in Alpine, Wyoming while reading a book. He was born to Robert and Nellie Hunsaker Molgard on April 16, 1942 in Brigham City, Utah. He graduated from Box Elder High School and received a BS in Political Science at USU. He was a true-blooded Aggie, having football and basketball season tickets for 63 years. He received his Juris Doctor in 1969 from the University of Utah Law School and practiced law in Brigham City for 55 years. In 2009, he was proud to bring his nephew Malone into the Molgard Law Firm. They had an extra special bond. Jack never married, so his sister Kay Peterson and his brothers Kent, Max, their spouses and children were his family, along with cousins, aunts and uncles that he loved. The Molgards are an extremely tight-knit group, spending much of their lives together. Fifty-three years ago, Jack and his mother Nellie bought property in Alpine, Wyoming with the specific goal of making it a place for their family to gather and make memories. With the addition of a cabin built by Kent, a large garage to store the boats, four-wheelers and other toys, additional property and Kay’s cabin across the street, it has become a treasured gathering place where a constant stream of family come to play and make memories. Those memories have always included Uncle Jack, who spent every moment he could at the cabin, fishing, floating the river and even piloting his own plane there in the early years. His passions included history, reading and education. He listened daily to several hours of the news. He loved trying to stump relatives about history trivia, and they very seldom stumped him. In his sixties, he returned to Utah State and received an MS in History. He also had a lifetime passion for photography. His gruff exterior hid the biggest heart and we know that many were the recipient of his generosity and kindness, with the common directive to “just don’t tell anybody.” That kindness was turned around as he received a frightening prognosis two years ago that he wouldn’t live more than a few weeks. Undeterred, he rallied and surprised everyone as he lived his new normal. His siblings, nieces and nephews all combined forces and gave him a wonderful final two years of adventures and service when needed. We are so grateful for those additional two years. Special thanks to Dr. Lance Barker, nurse Amber Jones and IHC Hospice. He was also grateful to niece Barbie Molgard-Wright who supervised his medical needs, his sister Kay who brought his lunch to share during her daily visits and brother Max who was his entertainment director. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Kent Molgard and brother-in-law Morrell Peterson and numerous canine companions. He is survived by his sister Kay Peterson, sister-in-law Pam (DeLoy) Bench, brother Max (Bette) Molgard, and numerous nieces and nephews. Per his request, there will be no funeral services. There will be a private memorial at a later date in Alpine, Wyoming.

Lewis Jones  

 Lewis Jones, affectionately known as Dr. Jones by his students, was a charismatic soul whose life was a testament to his compassionate nature and humble heart. Born on July 29, 1942, in Brigham City, Utah, Lewis spent his childhood immersed in the vibrant culture and strong community spirit that shaped him into the loving, dedicated man he grew to be. Throughout his life, Lewis remained true to his roots, residing in his beloved hometown until his passing on March 25, 2024.

Lewis was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Lewis served in the Gulf States Mission in the early 1960's. In the words of his faith, "The worth of souls is great in the sight of God." (D&C 18:10). He married Karen Burt Jones in the Salt Lake City Temple on September 4, 1964. A graduate of Brigham Young University, Lewis dedicated his life to the noble vocation of teaching. His radiant personality and passion for education touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the heart of every student he taught. He taught at Box Elder and then Bear River High Schools. His love for history was infectious, and his hobby of reenacting the Golden Spike was a testament to his dedication to preserving and sharing the rich history of his beloved home state. As a retiree, Lewis continued to live a life full of enthusiasm and love for his community. He also sold real estate. He loved spending time with his family, BYU sports, traveling and reading. Lewis is survived by our angel mother and his devoted wife, Karen, his loving children; Dan, Carolyn Brown, Kelly, Tim (Staci), Chris, Julie (Greg) Roy, Jenny, Ben (Lisa) Jones. He also has 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Lewis was preceded in death by his parents, Judge Lewis Jones Sr. and Lucille Reeves Jones; and 3 older sisters. Lewis always treated everyone he met with kindness and respect. Thanks to all who have helped along the way! We love you Dad! Always! Thanks for everything. A viewing will be held at Gillies Funeral Chapel, 634 East 200 South, Brigham City, Utah, 84302, on Friday, March 29, 2024, at 6:00-8:00 pm and on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 9:30 am at the Brigham City 1st Ward, 236 East 100 South. The funeral service will follow on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 11:00 am MDT at the same location. In memory of our beloved Lewis, we encourage friends and family to share their memories, stories, and photos on his memorial page. Each remembrance shared will stand as a tribute to Lewis's incredible life and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him.

 Myrle Reeder Brightenburg

Our loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Myrle Reeder Brightenburg, 81 passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at her home with her family surrounding her. She was born on Sunday, December 21, 1941 in Brigham City, Utah, the first of 7 children to Wallace V. and Opal Wight Reeder. She lived her entire life in Brigham City, graduating from Box Elder High School in 1960 and later attended and graduated from LDS Business College. Myrle married her sweetheart, Edwin Lee Brightenburg on October 14, 1960 in the Logan Temple. She was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in numerous callings as part of the 12th Ward. Myrle and Ed also served a three year service mission at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City. Besides raising 6 kids of her own and many who weren't, she had numerous varied careers including working at The Fabric Shop, Waitressing, Teachers Aid, Flying J Corporate Office , and most recently Box Elder County District Court. She was a wonderful wife and homemaker, an amazing mother, and a loving grandmother and great grandmother . Myrle was also a very skilled seamstress and her talents were sought after by many, for crafting prom dresses, wedding gowns, and beautiful quilts. She enjoyed square dancing and loved music, attending concerts whenever she could. Her loving nature extended to everyone she came in contact with and all were treated as if they were family which included people and the occasional cat. Myrle's favorite pastimes were growing flowers and evening walks with friends and family. The activity she loved most in recent years, was riding her blue bicycle through the neighborhoods of Brigham City. The family would like to thank Peggy and CNS Hospice for their loving care of Myrle, and her many doctors and nurses. Surviving are her husband, Ed; six children: Chris (Cindy) Brightenburg; Diane (Kurt) Quayle; Randall Mark (Kimberle) Brightenburg; Angela (Alan) Kallmeyer; Juli (Todd) Bainter; Misty Lee (Ken) Pendleton; 17 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. She is also survived by six siblings, Rex Reeder, Ellen Freeman, Joy Haws, Royce Reeder, LeAnn Gilbert and Stephen Reeder. She was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 1:00 pm at the Brigham City North Stake Center, 320 E 600 N. A viewing will be held prior to the services from 11:00 to 12:30 pm. Interment will be in the Brigham City Cemetery.

 

1941

Arvol Dale Smith

November 5, 1941 — October 18, 2023

Hooper 

Arvol Dale Smith, 81, who always introduced himself as Smitty, returned to his Heavenly Father on October 18th, 2023 surrounded by his loved ones. He was born November 5, 1941, to Arvol LaVere and Elsie Smith in Brigham City, Utah.

 

He was the oldest of four kids, raised in Brigham City, and they have remained close friends throughout their lives. Smitty took great pride in his childhood, spending it hunting, farming, and horseback riding. His father was his hero, and he spent his life striving to be as loving, caring, and strong as his father. From his mother he got his sense of humor.

 

Smitty valued education and loved learning, and was immensely proud to be the first member of his family to graduate from high school (Box Elder High School, ‘60) and college (Utah State University, ‘67). While attending Utah State University, he met the love of his life, Marilyn Felter. Smitty knew right away that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her, and they were engaged three months later. They married on June 18, 1965 in the Logan Temple and made their first home in Brigham City, where they lived for ten years and had their first four children. Having earned a Bachelor of Arts in History Education, Smitty started teaching at Roy High School. After commuting for eight years, the family finally moved to Hooper in 1975, where they had three more children and still live.

 

Smitty taught history and other subjects, along with coaching wrestling and football at Roy High School for 30 years; he lived golden and bled black, cheering for the Royals long after he retired. Education was Smitty’s great passion, he loved working with students and always went above and beyond to help them. As a principal of the night school, he made sure young mothers and other disadvantaged students had the same educational opportunities. While working with a summer CETA program, he met a troubled young man who needed a second chance, and this is when Hank Fetler joined the family as their foster son.

 

Smitty worked hard to ensure his family had every opportunity and had many different side jobs, from roofing and sprinklers to door-to-door sales and the IRS. His infectious laughter and caring demeanor touched everyone he encountered, whether at the Roxy Theatre in Brigham City, Willard Bay State Park, or the Ogden Depot.

 

When he wasn’t working, Smitty loved to tend to his vegetable garden, spending many a joyful hour with his rototiller, and sharing his harvest with family and friends. But as he would have told you, he was happy doing anything, as long as his precious wife was by his side. Together they had many adventures camping, hiking, and sightseeing.

 

He was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a two and-a-half year mission to Germany during the construction of the Berlin Wall. He never lost his love for all things German - language, food, people, culture, and food. He served the Church in many capacities through the years, including ward clerk, Sunday school teacher, young men’s leader, high priest leader, and, his favorite, the primary class he taught with his wife, Marilyn. He and Marilyn also served a mission for the Church at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City.

 

Smitty’s kids, grandkids, and great grandkids were one of his great joys in life; he cherished any opportunity to spend time with them, and bragged about having spent a good portion of his retirement babysitting. As they got older, he always had time to cheer them on at their many sports and arts activities, even if it meant rooting against Roy High. He was immensely proud of the happiness and success of his family. 

 

Smitty is remembered by many for his smile, and for loving to make others laugh and smile, whether they were family and friends or a perfect stranger. He always had a dad joke ready to share. He passed his love of pranks, which he got from his own mother, to his kids and grandkids; there's always a risk of shenanigans at any family gathering, thanks to him!

 

Arvol is survived by his beautiful wife of 58 years, Marilyn; his seven amazing children: Kimberlee Endicott (Gene), Darci Roche, Mindy Smith (Chris Sojourner), Kara Auseré (Dave), Arvol Lee Smith, Allen Dale Smith (Emilio Casillas), and Don Charles Smith; 18 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren; and his siblings: DeAnn Meadows (Carl), Ron Smith (Bev), and DeOrr Smith (GayLynn). Beyond his family, Smitty leaves behind countless students whose lives he touched, and whose success always brought him pride.

 

Arvol was preceded in death by his parents, his foster son Hank C. Fetler, his grandson Nathan Kimber Endicott, his great granddaughter Chloe Ann Endicott, and many extended family members.

 

Our family is grateful for the loving care provided by Dr. Butler, Dr. Stinnett, Dr. Cortez and their staff, as well as Ogden Regional Hospital.

 

There will be a viewing on Sunday, October 22 at Lindquist’s Roy Mortuary, 3333 W. 5600 S. from 6-8:00 pm. The celebration of life will be Monday, October 23 at the Fremont Ward Chapel, 4979 S. 5100 W. Hooper at 11 am, with a viewing at 9:45.

 

Interment, Portage Cemetery.

 

Smitty requested that everyone wear bright colors or Roy High Gear (no ties or hats) while we celebrate his life and legacy. Have your best dad joke ready to share.