Stephen Bert Raff - Walker Funeral Home

Stephen Bert Raff, age 70 of Payson, Utah, “graduated” from mortality April 10, 2020, top of his class. He will no doubt continue his teaching and learning with his parents, Dayton and Evelyn Higginson Raff, and two of his brothers Dayle and LaVern, and many other loved ones who have also courageously endured their mortal journey.

Stephen was born in Nampa, Idaho, August 11, 1949. He participated in ward choirs with his mother from a very young age. He loved music, performing, and sharing his talent of singing with his beautiful tenor voice. He attended Ricks College and performed in Hansel and Gretel, The King and I, and other productions. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Stockholm Sweden from 1968-1970.

He met and fell in love with Marla Hellewell and they were married on July 8, 1971 in the Logan, Utah temple. His role as husband and father proved to be the most amazing lead role he’d ever have. The two welcomed three girls and three boys, Kevin (Steffani) Raff, Jason (Elizabeth) Raff, Jayne (Jeremy) Elswood, Mark (Janie) Raff, Shari (Troy) Humphries, and Stephanie (Jered) Taylor, who were raised to love each other, honor their parents, and trust in our Heavenly Father’s Plan through actively serving and living the Gospel taught in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. His legacy also includes 25 grandchildren ages 24-4 who have learned above all: determination, selflessness, and forgiveness among many other qualities throughout Stephen’s life.

He supported his kids in their numerous swim meets, sporting events, choir performances, scouting trips, and home projects dreamed up by Mom.

He graduated from BYU with Bachelor and Master’s degrees in education and taught fourth and fifth grade students at Wilson Elementary in Payson where he and Marla lived most of their married life. His teacher qualities also helped him successfully do technical writing for software companies, the most recent from which he retired, was MultiLing Corporation. He participated in many musical/ theatrical performances while living in Payson, including performances of 1776, The Title of Liberty, Moroni, and solo performances with the Payson Civic Chorale. One of the most rewarding singing roles though was his ten years spent as a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. This provided many unique memories for his family of which they are so grateful.

Stephen loved his family and people. His smile was contagious, and he kept an incredibly positive, calm, caring attitude till his journey’s end. As his dementia set in we were continuously reminded of what was clearly most important, and his message to all who knew him; our spouse, our temple covenants made, and that he loved us unconditionally will be what remains as his legacy.

A viewing will be held for immediate and extended family members on April 14 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at the Walker Mortuary in Payson. A public viewing will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 PM.

A private family graveside service will be held Wednesday April 15th at the Payson City Cemetery.

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9 Condolences for Stephen Bert Raff

Condolences(9)

Dorothy M Argyle says

April 13, 2020 at 4:55 pm

Dear Marla and family,
I was so sorry to read of Steve’s passing. I taught with him at Wilson School and had the privilege of teaching Kevin, Jason, Mark, and Jayne. He was so talented in so many ways both as a teacher, a computer expert in the lab, and sharing his amazing singing voice. I send my heartfelt condolences to the Raff family at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Dorothy Argyle

George Gull says

April 14, 2020 at 3:18 pm

Dear Raff Family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I taught with Stephen at Wilson School. He was a great teacher, and I really enjoyed having him as a fellow teacher.
Sincerely, George Gull

Clint DeMill says

April 14, 2020 at 4:18 pm

Dear Raff Family,

Very sorry to hear this news. He was always so kind to our family. It’s been a long time, but I have memories of him to this day. Sincere condolences from our family.

Adella Cottrell says

April 14, 2020 at 10:31 pm

Dear Marla & family,
I am so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. He was a great man and friend. I enjoyed teaching with him at Wilson School and seeing the talent he had not only in the classroom, but also helping me understand how computers worked and listening to his students sing. I also enjoyed teaching his talented children.
The photo program you put together was wonderful and I can tell he loved all of you so much and it looks like many trips were taken together.
I wish I could come to his viewing, but with everything that is going on, I guess I had better stay home, but know I send my condolences and love to all of you.
Love, Adella Cottrell

Connie O’Hara says

April 16, 2020 at 1:50 pm

Dear Marla, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your sweetheart. Sending you love and prayers of comfort at this time.

Bart Buell says

April 17, 2020 at 12:47 am

Dear Marla, I fondly remember Steve’s love of music, and getting to sing along with him in some Payson South Stake choirs. I also enjoyed working with him at Directory Resources-BookMan in Provo. I pray that the Lord’s comfort will be with you during this time of separation.

Pam Haney says

April 17, 2020 at 7:33 am

I’m so sorry to hear about your husband & father. I have so many fun pool memories of your family. Sending love and prayers to all.

Jane York says

April 20, 2020 at 8:40 pm

Marla, So sorry to read of Steve’s passing. The video was wonderful and showed what an awesome life he had. Hope you and your family are doing well. Praying for your comfort at this time.

Shelley Carlson Leavitt says

January 29, 2021 at 4:07 am

Dearest Marla and family,
I only just read, by chance, of dear Stephen’s passing almost one year ago. My heart is grieving for you and your family.

Stephen Bert Raff August 11, 1949 - April 10, 2020

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9 Condolences for Stephen Bert Raff