Byron Lee Blackwell

Byron Lee Blackwell passed away surrounded by his family and friends on February 17, 2020 in West Valley City, Utah. He was born on May 19, 1973 in West Valley City, Utah to Leland Churchill and Afton Smithson Blackwell. Byron attended the American Fork State Training School until 1995. He later moved to a residential group home and day program with the Work Activities Center (WAC). He had his own unique sign language and knew many words.
Byron loved superhero movies, Star Wars, TV shows like Friends and The Office. He loved bowling and going with the Work Activities Center. He also enjoyed books, spending time at home, and of course, pop. He could never get enough Coke or Pepsi. If he didn’t get his pop, he would steal yours! Our local McDonalds donated several cups and straws to Byron for always being a loyal customer. Byron was always waving “Hi!” and yelling “Happy!” unless he was NOT happy to see you… Then watch out!
Byron made jump ropes and sorted colors for the Work Activities Center. He also assisted in teaching the staff sign language. When he was younger, he loved going on bike rides on his special-made, three wheeled bicycle. Car rides were also a favorite past time. Also when he was younger, he was notorious for leaving facilities unattended to go for a walk, and had to be brought back several times. He kept everyone on their toes. Byron was a comedian, always making those around him laugh. Music and dancing were also Byron’s passions.
Byron is survived by his two sisters: Amy (Darin Speck) Blackwell and Ruth (Bob) Davis, his nieces and nephews: Tytan, Wynter, Ryver, Michael, Chance, and Castin. He is preceded in death by his parents: Leland and Afton Blackwell.
A viewing will be held on Saturday, February 29, 2020 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, following will be a time for family and friends to share memories (which is open to all) of Byron and the Blackwell Family ending at 1:00 PM at Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah 84123. Interment to follow at the same location.
The family extends a special thank you to: WAC for all of their love and support, the University of Utah Medical Center and Redwood Road Clinic, and Jordan Valley Medical Center West Valley Campus for his multiple hospitalizations, to Canyon Hospice for their care at the end of Byron’s life, and to Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery for their care, support and patience.
In lieu of flowers, please consider mailing a donation to the Work Activity Center, 1275 West 2320 South, West Valley City, Utah 84119, in Byron’s name.
Service Information
Viewing February 29, 2020 at 10:00 - 12:00 PM
Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah 84123





Celebration of Life
February 29, 2020 at 1:00 PM
Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah 84123