Larry M. Childs
Jan. 25, 2018
Larry M. Childs passed from this mortal world on Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2018 in his home in Gunnison after a valiant four-year battle with cancer. Larry will be truly missed by all those he came in contact with, he never met a stranger.
Larry was born the seventh of ten children to Jay and Janet Childs in Gunnison, Utah on Dec. 12, 1961. Larry loved growing up in Gunnison where he enjoyed riding horse and motorcycles and working on the family farm. He looked forward to Friday night sleepovers with his grandparents, where he would help his grandmas iron drapes and cook. Summers where spent riding for cows and building fences on the mountain with his grandpa.
Larry attended Gunnison Valley High School where he was active in FFA, track, wrestling, and student council. After graduating from high school, Larry attended Snow College and BYU on livestock judging scholarships. He excelled in this area earning many awards.
Larry married Kristal Payton Aug. 13, 1983 in the Salt Lake Temple. They settled in Gunnison where they raised their two children.
Larry had many passions in his life, including leatherwork, gardening, photography, and collecting. Larry’s most profound love was for animals and he spent countless hours dedicated to teaching the youth that same love. Larry served as Jr. Herford Association President, Sanpete County Rodeo Chairman, 4-H leader, and Jr. Livestock Chairman.
Larry was a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many callings throughout his life. Among his favorites were Elders Quorum president, Sunday School president, and financial clerk. He considered among the most fulfilling to be his callings at the prison. He served as a Sunday School teacher, Family Home Evening coordinator, and as a member of the branch presidency.
Service was a huge part of Larry’s life. Not a day went by that Larry didn’t serve those around him, most of the time completely anonymously.
Larry is survived by his wife, Kristal; children: Shayla and Jarrett Coates, Gunnison; Jake and McKaylee Childs, Cedar Hills; his parents, and nine siblings. His pride and joy were his five grandchildren; Ryder, Rawlee, Talbot, Rangely, and Charlotte.
A special thanks to Dr. Wallentine and his staff for their kind and loving care of Larry.
A celebration of his life was held Jan. 23, 2018 at noon in the Gunnison Stake Center. Burial was in the Gunnison Cemetery. Funeral Directors Magleby Mortuary Richfield, Salina, Manti. Online guestbook www.maglebymortuary.com.
