LaMar Brown

(Grant) LaMar Brown passed peacefully on Monday, August 19, 2024, at the age of 95. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. 

LaMar was born on January 2, 1929, in Murray, Utah, to Clara Hill and Floyd Charles Brown. 

He attended Provo High School, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. LaMar held All-State honors for multiple years in all three sports and played football for one year at the University of Utah before injury cut his career short.

While in high school, LaMar met the love of his life, Shirley Jean Nelson. The first time she saw LaMar flip up his collar, she knew he was who she wanted to be with for the rest of her life. They married on May 23, 1951, in Temple, Texas, and their love story began . . . lasting over 70 years.

LaMar immediately began his 18-month military service in Fort Hood, Texas, before being stationed in Germany. Though he was a trained medic, LaMar was also asked to join both Army traveling basketball and baseball teams. 

Upon returning from the Army, LaMar and Shirley settled in Bountiful (annexed to No. Salt Lake), Utah, and raised two children. They lived in the same house for the next 61 years, enjoying the life they had built together. Shirley was his forever companion, lover, and friend, his “Yellowbird.”

LaMar began his career as a phone system installer for Mountain Bell Telephone Co. and retired after 35 years. His efforts then turned to support Shirley as she built her own insurance agency, Full Service Insurance.

LaMar was an avid golfer and taught Shirley how to golf when they were first married. They were members of Copper Club and eventually became members at Oakridge Country Club for 40 years. They played golf together often in couple’s tournaments as well as being Club Champions on many occasions. Having golf in common allowed LaMar and Shirley a lifetime of companionship, enjoyment and traveling to courses around the US. LaMar was a low handicap and had two hole-in-ones. 

They purchased a house in Beaver Dam, Arizona which allowed them to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather during the winter months. They always looked forward to fall, heading down south for golf, four-wheeling, and just being together. 

LaMar and Shirley traveled the world together going to many continents including Europe, Asia and South America, His hobbies also included fishing, hunting, camping and working in his yard. 

Gramps was a pillar of strength and love for his grandkids. His presence brought comfort, joy, and a sense of security. His legacy of kindness, affection, and fun will forever be cherished in their hearts. Their visits brought sunshine and happiness into his life.

LaMar is survived by his son Craig LaMar Brown, daughter Vicki Andersen and grandchildren: Shelsea Garrett (Dave), Tori Johnson (Colt), Chris Brown, Haley Call (Dave), and Jamie Smith (Jordan). He adored his 15 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Shirley. He has missed her every single day since her passing.