July 15, 1936 ~ February 4, 2024 (age 87)
Reese Melvin Beeton, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, February 4, 2024. Reese was born as the only child to Melvin Paul Beeton and Helen Knudson on July 15, 1936.
He married the love of his life, Nancy Kay Ferry, 66 years ago on September 20, 1957. They were later sealed in the Logan Temple on April 10, 1964. He was active in his church serving as Elders Quorum President, Sunday School President, Scout Master, and librarian.
Reese loved history. He was referred to often as a “walking encyclopedia.” He was very involved in the community, serving on many boards in many different leadership positions. He was the longest serving member of the Box Elder County Scuba Team where he served for 50 years. He was the President of the BC Jaycees, earning the Distinguished Service Award. He received the Modern Pioneer Award from the Sons of Utah Pioneers. His love and knowledge of history benefited many from his detailed contributions to museums, the Bird Refuge, and the railroad archives. He was a lifetime endowment level of membership in the NRA.
Reese began his training as a plumber at the age of 14. He became the youngest Journeyman Plumber in the state of Utah at the age of 21, being five years younger than any other journeyman at the time. He went on to own two businesses: Ember’s Fireplace Shoppe and Progressive Contractor’s Plumbing. He ended his career with O & M Plumbing & Heating, retiring after 45 years.
He was a member of the J&D’s Restaurant “Coffee Bunch,” in which he rarely missed daily attendance. Reese was deeply loved and will be missed by all who have known him.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy, and his children: Brian Beeton of Brigham City; Cindi (Tom) Johnson of Garland; Lezlee (Mike) Gorey of Cottonwood Heights; Russ (Deb) Beeton of Orem; Mitch Beeton of Brigham City; and Marci Beeton of Brigham City; 23 grandchildren, 6 step-grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren with 3 on the way, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Melvin and Helen; Aunt: Wanda (Herb) Hampton; Cousins: Beverly Beeton, Rodney Beeton, Judy Beeton; In-Laws: J.Y. and Alda Ferry, Donna (Bert) Cussimanio, Bonnie (John) Holmes, Miles (Suzy) Ferry; a great-grandson: Jon Gabriel Beeton.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Brigham City 15th Ward Chapel, 203 North 200 West, Brigham City, Utah.
Viewings will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Myers Mortuary, 205 South 100 East, Brigham City, Utah, and prior to service from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. at the church.
Interment will be at the Brigham City Cemetery.
Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.myers-mortuary.com.