Gary William Craghead, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026 at home, surrounded by the love of his family.
Gary was born on February 3, 1940, in Provo, Utah, to Jack and Helen Craghead. As the oldest of seven children, he learned early the values of hard work, responsibility, and caring for others, qualities that would define his life. Growing up in Provo, Gary enjoyed playing baseball and was an accomplished clarinet player in his school band. After graduating from high school, he attended Dixie State College for two years before returning home to work alongside his father at Craghead Plumbing. Through dedication and perseverance, he became a journeyman plumber. Most of his career was spent working in the family generational business, where he started out as a shop boy and eventually became President of the company.
After closing Craghead Plumbing, Gary continued his career at Geneva Steel before later joining Brigham Young University, where he worked until his retirement. Throughout his working years, he was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and willingness to help others.
In 1964, Gary was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam era. He served in Korea, initially working as a plumber before his exceptional typing skills earned him a position as a clerk. He served his country with quiet dedication and honor.
Following his military service, Gary’s life changed forever when he met a beautiful blonde named Sheila Jasperson while out with friends. He asked her on a date, and from that moment forward they were inseparable. Gary and Sheila were married on October 7, 1966, in Payson, Utah, beginning a loving partnership that would span decades. Their marriage was later solemnized in the temple in July 1994, a sacred milestone that reflected their deep faith and devotion to one another. Together, Gary and Sheila built a loving family and raised four children: Bob, Vicki, Brent, and Suanne. His family was the center of his life, and he took immense pride in each of their accomplishments.
Gary was known for many things: his love of softball, hunting, storytelling, and fast convertibles. He continued playing softball well into his later years and was known for a wicked knuckleball. Gary even won a home run derby for his age division at 78 years old. He cherished hunting trips with his sons and had a remarkable ability to make family and friends laugh with his stories and quick wit. Though many knew him for his athletic talents, few knew that Gary was also a gifted pianist who enjoyed playing in his spare time. Whether on the ball field, at the piano, or gathered around family, Gary had a way of bringing people together.
A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gary served in numerous callings throughout his life, including as a member of a bishopric serving the BYU community and as a stake athletic director for many years. His genuine kindness, welcoming nature, and sincere testimony touched countless lives. He had a unique ability to help others feel valued and loved, and he was instrumental in helping many strengthen their own faith.
Gary loved sports, especially BYU athletics and anything involving his grandchildren. He and Sheila traveled countless miles supporting their children and grandchildren in sporting events, performances, and life’s many adventures. He was always the first to proudly point out a child or grandchild in a crowd and delighted in celebrating their successes.
Of all the things that defined Gary’s life, nothing was more evident than his love for his sweetheart, Sheila. Their devotion to one another was a constant example to all who knew them. Together they created a home filled with faith, laughter, love, and unwavering support.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila Jasperson Craghead of Payson, Utah; his children: Bob (Molli) Craghead of Provo, Utah; Vicki (Steve) Hollingshead of Tustin, California; Brent (Alys) Craghead; and Suanne (Tim) Wilda of Payson, Utah; as well as his 15 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Bob Craghead and Jim Craghead, and two sisters, Jackie McKinney and Cori Smith, as well as other extended family and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Helen Craghead; his sister, Sandra McMeekin; and his brother, Rick Craghead.
He will be remembered not for seeking recognition, but for quietly serving others, loving his family deeply, and living a life of integrity, faith, humility, and kindness. His example will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints chapel, 650 West 800 South, Payson, Utah. Two visitations, where family and friends may gather will be: Friday evening, June 12, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 587 South 100 West, Payson, Utah; and on Saturday morning at the church from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. prior to the funeral. Interment, with Military Honors, will be at Payson City Cemetery, 800 East 400 North, Payson, Utah.
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