Farrell Wayman Hillyard, our beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather and friend, peacefully completed his mortal life on June 26, 2022 in his home in Smithfield, Utah, surrounded by his loving family. He was 98 years old.
Farrell was born on May 1, 1924 in Smithfield, the eldest of five children of Wayman Joseph and Amanda Sorensen Hillyard. He spent his childhood on a farm in Smithfield with his loving family, where he was blessed to learn the values of responsibility, developing lasting relationships with others and working hard. He milked six cows by hand each morning and evening, in addition to helping his dad with many chores involved with a farm.
Farrell (known as “Fudd” to many) attended elementary and junior high in Smithfield. While attending North Cache High in Richmond, he met the light and love of his life, Carma Petersen. Farrell was drafted into the Navy in August 1943, putting a pause on their budding courtship. While in the service, Farrell spent most of his time assigned to the U.S.S. Massachusetts in the Pacific during World War II. Amid the war, the “Mighty Mamie” returned to the Puget Sound for repairs. Sailors were granted leave, and it was at this time that Farrell returned to Smithfield and assured Carma that they would be together for time and all eternity. They were married in the Logan LDS temple on May 25, 1944. After two short months as newlyweds, Farrell returned to complete his remaining 18-month Naval service in the final stages of the war.
In December 1945, Farrell and Carma were reunited and began their family life together in Smithfield. As Farrell often said, “Our kids started coming awfully fast!” They were blessed with five sons and one daughter. Farrell supported his family initially working on the Meikle farm and at their feed mill. Eventually, he began working at Cantwell Brothers Lumber, where he held numerous roles in the yard and driving truck. He felt fortunate to be able to work for the Cantwell family until the age of 91 when the lumber yard closed.
Farrell was loved by many and known for his wit. He was fortunate to have acquaintances of various ages as he continued to outlive many dear friends. Over the years he loved to fish and hunt. With his bride at his side, they enjoyed many trips in their camping trailer often riding motorbikes and enjoying the beautiful Cache Valley mountains and parks in Southern Utah. Farrell and Carma always lived in Smithfield. They especially loved their final home, a house they built in Country View. They were blessed with amazing neighbors who showed them kindness and provided endless acts of service.
Farrell served in a multitude of church callings, including; Sunday School Teacher, Young Men President, Elders Quorum Secretary and President, Ward Clerk and High Priest Group Leader.
The family wishes to express its deepest heartfelt thanks for the loving and tender care provided by his granddaughter Emily Bashaw and his son Rex, making it possible for him to remain in his home until the end, which was his greatest desire. Farrell is survived by his son, Steven Hillyard (Linda) of Sun Lakes, AZ; son-in-law, Glenn Hill of Ogden, UT; son, Rex Hillyard of Smithfield, UT; daughter-in-law, Renee Hillyard of Smithfield, UT; son, Kim Hillyard (Lisa) of Covington, WA; brother, Max; sister, Barbara Blair, 20 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Carma, parents, sister Verla Watkins, brother Gary, daughter Linda Hill, sons Paul Hillyard and Ross Hillyard, three great grandsons, Jack and Tyler Giesy and Colin Pritchard.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. at the Smithfield LDS Chapel, (625 E. 600 S). A viewing will be held at the LDS Chapel on Saturday morning from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Interment will be at the Smithfield City Cemetery.
CLICK HERE
to view the funeral livestream.