George Beagley

George Jr. Beagley

1927 ~ 2022

George Jr Beagley, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away Saturday April 2, at the age of 94, peacefully at home surrounded by his family.

George Jr. was born November 1, 1927 to George Ray and Macel (Jensen) Beagley in Magna Utah. The third son of four boys, known for his social abilities and friendly disposition, he was a stranger to no one. He grew up during the Great Depression where hard work, frugality and self-reliance were instilled into his character.

At the age of 17, George, along with his brother Glen, joined the Merchant Marines and had many humbling experiences during his short service. His High School sweetheart Vayomi Bowden supported him during that time. During one of his brief leaves, George and Vayomi married in the Salt Lake City Temple for time and all eternity, on October 10th, 1946. Together they built their home in Magna where their roots were planted deep. George and Vayomi raised their seven children: Steven George, VayAnn (David Richards), Michael Jon (Julie), Cindy May (Kelly Astill), Brad Mark (Patty), David Searle (Marlene), and Darline M (Mark Debry). Family meant everything to the both of them.  Mom (Vayomi) would say, “His biggest flaw was that he loved his children too much.” George was always ready to share his stories of his families’ lives and accomplishments, as he was so very proud of each of them. His 36 grandchildren, 93 ½ great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren all have fond memories.

Some of those memories include camping at Beaver Creek, Camper World, riding motorcycles on the desert, and always singing and harmonizing with Mom. He would share stories about his childhood when he was a “Little Girl”, ice cream trips to Reams Grocery Store, popping his teeth out for his grandkids and teaching us the love of musicals. Specifically South Pacific, The Music Man, Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof and anything with Judy Garland.

George worked at Kennecott Copper Refinery for 42 years as a sheet metal worker. He had a special gift and talent working with metal. His creativity and invention led to the development and design of the “Derrick”. The Derrick was an outdoor open fire-cooking device that many used and loved. George also invented a “Guard”, used for hand held grinders at Kennecott. His contribution was recognized with a photo in the local newspaper. He used his skills to build many beautiful designs. Including a beautiful fountain, wall hangings, jewelry holders, picnic tables and anything else he could envision.

George served faithfully in all his callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. As a young father, he was invited to be the Sunday School President. This opportunity to serve changed his life. He would go on to  hold many other callings over the years, including Bishop, High Councilman and an ordinance worker at the Jordan River Temple, to name a few. As Bishop of the Lake Ridge 2

Ward he helped to build the new ward house. He was always involved and overseeing the work and service being done. George was also recognized for 17 years of 100% Home Teaching.

George had a beautiful voice and he loved to sing. He instilled that love in his children and grandchildren and gave them opportunities to learn and perform. George sang with the Salt Lake City Barbershop Chorus. He served as their President and brought many conventions to Salt Lake City. One collaboration was with the Tabernacle Choir and Vocal Majority, where he worked closely with President Benson. He and Mom (Vayomi) greatly enjoyed their association and activity in this group. Traveling and performing in many different parts across the country. They made many friends and enjoyed this time together.   With years of health difficulties, Vay passed too soon in 1996, six weeks prior to their 50  Wedding Anniversary.

George married Dorothy Hoskins in 1997. This added another daughter to our family, Collene (Keith Shewell). One year later, they were sealed in the Jordan River Temple along with daughter Collene. They would go on to serve two missions together, one at Cove Fort Utah and the other at the Humanitarian Center in Salt Lake City. They made many friendships during this time and helped many families throughout their service. They taught an English course and even assisted in helping those in need gain citizenship. They loved serving together.

They always referred to each other as “Darling”. George moved to Dorothy’s home in Taylorsville. There they developed new friendships and love for their neighbors. Dad felt very much at home in this new neighborhood and continued his service in ward callings and with his new ward family.  They enjoyed traveling together, their time in St George and spending time with their “baby” Aiko (dog). They would have celebrated their 25th anniversary on April 25th.

Over these last few months, Dorothy has definitely made us laugh as we have cared for Dad. We are eternally grateful for Dorothy’s love, devotion and companionship to him.

We also would like to extend our many thanks to the hospice team for all their assistance in caring and helping us keep our Dad at home.

Dad, thank you for the 94 years of unconditional love!

Preceded in death by his parents; brothers; his wife, Vayomi; his daughter, Vay Ann Richards; son-in-law, Mark DeBry; stepson, Kelly Hoskins; grandson, Paul Richards; grandson, Brian Richards; granddaughter, Angela Rhodes; granddaughter, Heidi Astill; and great granddaughter, Bradee Nash.

Viewing will be held Friday, April 8, 2022  6:00 - 8:00 at the Peel Funeral Home, 8525 West 2700 South Magna, Utah.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 9, 2022, with a viewing from 10:00 - 10: 45 a.m. at Bennion 5th Ward House, 6100 South Kamas Drive Taylorsville, Utah.