Charles “Lee” Cheney April 12, 1945 - November 2, 2025

Charles Lee Cheney
 April 12, 1945 – November 2, 2025

Charles Lee Cheney, known to all as Lee, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, in Payson, Utah, at the age of 80.

Lee was born on April 12, 1945, in Long Beach, California, to Charles and Josephine Keeler Cheney. He grew up in South Pasadena, California, where he graduated from South Pasadena High School and later attended Pasadena City College. One of his proudest memories from those years was marching with the PCC band in the Rose Parade.

From 1964 to 1966, Lee served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the New Zealand South Mission, a time that strengthened his faith and built a love for the Māori culture and traditions.

Upon returning home, Lee met and later married Joyce Kay Blockburger, on April 4, 1968, in the Los Angeles California LDS temple. Together they built a beautiful life, raising nine children and finding joy in the blessings of 37 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Lee served in the United States Navy from 1968 to 1972. During his service, he was stationed in Texas and Tennessee, where he and Joyce spent their early married years.

A skilled craftsman, Lee worked as a finish carpenter, specializing in cabinetry and fine woodworking for hotels and casinos throughout Las Vegas, Nevada. His dedication and artistry left a lasting mark across the city. After 22 years in the industry, he retired from the Stardust Hotel and Casino in 1999.

Lee had a deep love for creating things, especially from wood, and found great satisfaction in his craftsmanship. He also loved the outdoors, traveling with his family, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Music was another lifelong passion; he played the saxophone in his youth and carried a love of music throughout his life.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Lee will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and steadfast faith.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Cheney, his siblings Susan Smith, Deanne Goodwin, and Drew Cheney, and his children Eric (Gretchen), Kristen (Robert) Kingsley, Aaron (Jeana), Darrell (Kelly), Keith (Emily), Teresa, Craig (Amber), and Allison (Dave) Terry, 37 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Josephine Cheney; his sisters Mary Jean and Laura Lynn Cheney; and his beloved son Ryan Cheney.

Lee’s family finds comfort in knowing he is reunited with loved ones who have gone before and that his legacy of faith, love, and craftsmanship will continue to inspire generations to come.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 11:00am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 681 East 500 North in Payson, Utah with a viewing prior from 9:45-10:45 am.

Interment will be at Payson City Cemetery, 400 North 800 East, Payson, Utah.