Keith Neldon Worthington

Click below to listen to the funeral service. Available until March 28, 2018.

Keith Neldon Worthington, 88, left this life and reunited with his sweetheart Barbara on December 14, 2017. He passed away peacefully in the presence of his daughter Robyn. In his own words, Keith said “Death is a part of life and we must not fear it, but realize it is the next step in our progression.”

Keith was born in Nephi, Utah, on February 16, 1929, to John Neldon Worthington and LaVern Blackett. Keith was proud of his Nephi heritage — his master’s thesis topic was the history of Nephi. He was a graduate of Juab High School. 

Upon graduation, Keith attended Utah State Agricultural College for a year. He then transferred to Brigham Young University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in history. Keith was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1953, serving 3 years, including a year tour in Germany.

Education brought satisfaction and joy to Keith throughout his life. Upon completion of his military obligation he returned to BYU, earning a master’s degree in history. He spent his career as a secondary educator and librarian.

Keith was married to Kenna Kaye Larsen from 1957-1970. Together they had four children: Karen, John, Mark, and Michael. He married Barbara Ann Preece on October 7, 1971. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. Through that union he became father to Carol, Alan, and Robyn. He loved his seven children. Each person who joined his family received similar love and kindness. Keith’s greatest gift and joy was his family.  

Keith was a proud member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in the Western States Mission, Denver, Colorado; and later served with Barbara in Montreal, Canada. He and Barbara diligently learned Spanish together as part of their service. Keith served in many capacities in the Church over his life. He especially loved his service in the Salt Lake Temple. 

Keith was a patron of the arts. He often participated in and attended theatrical productions. He loved to dance and sing. His love of music was passed on to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Keith loved to read. He was often reading two or three books at once. In recent years he read daily, often with members of his family on the phone. He was a dedicated journal writer, faithfully documenting the details of his life. 

Keith is survived by his children: Carol (Kent) Steedman, Utah; Karen (John) Carter, Utah; John (Karla) Worthington, Virginia; Alan (Alyson) Scoville, Canada; Mark (Bonnie) Worthington, Idaho; Michael (Deborah) Worthington, Idaho; and Robyn J. Anderson, Utah. He is also survived by 28 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren (plus 1 on the way!). Keith was preceded in death by his wife Barbara, parents John Neldon and LaVern, sisters Shirlene and Grace (Sam), and granddaughter Megan Rene Worthington.

Keith’s family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Robyn for her dedication as Keith’s full-time caregiver over the last several years. They also wish to thank Larry Mills, Cyndi Martinez, Paul Rawlins, and Lewis Hastings for their friendship and support to Keith. They acknowledge the skill and care provided by the medical staff at the Veterans Administration hospital, VA Home Care, Superior Home Care and Hospice, and Silverado Aspen Park Rehabilitation. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, December 28, 2017 at the Wilford Ward building, 3179 Highland Drive. A viewing will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 27, 2017, at Holbrook Mortuary, 3251 S 2300 E, Salt Lake City, Utah. An additional viewing will be held at the church Thursday morning, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the funeral. Interment will follow at the Vine Bluff City Cemetery, 1200 North 400 East, Nephi, Utah at 3:15 p.m.

Guestbook to post messages and tributes for the family available at: HolbrookMortuary.com