Ralph LaVell Bracken

Ralph LaVell Bracken, age 88, slipped peacefully through the veil on October 20, 2025, after a weekend of tender goodbyes with his family. LaVell met the challenges of his later years, with feistiness and humor while reassuring his family and caregivers that he was “just fine.”

LaVell was born on August 8, 1937, in Hiawatha, Carbon County, Utah, to Ralph and Norma Johanna Stokes Bracken. He was the second of four children, with sisters Belva Elizabeth (Wayman), Tessa Dorine (Ralph), and Lana Marie (Siple). Their family was sealed together in the Manti Temple on February 26, 1948.

LaVell’s early years in Hiawatha were humble. He lived in one of the few homes that had an indoor bathroom—and the only one with a telephone. After moving to Castle Dale and then to Cleveland, LaVell found joy living near cousins and extended family, forming deep, lasting bonds that continued throughout his life. His uncle, Jay Stokes—only 3 years older—was like an older brother, and the two shared a close relationship throughout their lives. This was one of Lavell’s most defining qualities - the ability to form deep bonds with those he loved, and maintain those relationships throughout his life.

When work opportunities became scarce, the Bracken family relocated to Salt Lake City. LaVell attended West High School initially and then graduated from East High School. After a year at the University of Utah, he began six months of active duty in the U.S. Army, completing basic training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. After returning home, LaVell contemplated whether to serve an LDS mission. He received a clear answer in his mind that he should go; he immediately made an appointment with his bishop to start the process. On his birthday in 1958, the mission call came—to the Southern Australian Mission. His missionary service became a defining chapter in his life, strengthening his testimony of Jesus Christ and leaving a legacy of faith that has blessed generations.

After returning home, LaVell worked at The Blue Cottage ice cream shop, where he became reacquainted with his friend Mary Jane Watkins. Their friendship soon blossomed into love, and they were sealed for time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple by Spencer W. Kimball on December 8, 1961. Together they raised four children—Ann, Scott, Jason, and Tiffany—in Holladay, Utah, where they spent their lives surrounded by cherished friends and neighbors. LaVell’s professional career in sales, particularly with Prudential and Heritage Building Products, suited his people-oriented nature. Even at work, he built strong relationships wherever he went, finding genuine joy in connecting with others.

Known affectionately as “Brack,” LaVell was an avid sports fan and lifelong athlete. He played church basketball, officiated high school football and basketball, and developed a deep love of golf—complete with regular tee times and cherished golfing buddies. He could often be found watching any “ball game” on television, cheering with enthusiasm.

LaVell and Mary Jane lived devoted, faith-filled lives as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served faithfully in many callings, particularly enjoying work with the youth. After retirement, LaVell and Mary Jane served together in the Florida Tallahassee Mission and later in the Salt Lake Inner City Mission. One of his most meaningful callings was as branch president at the Highland Care Center, where he discovered a deep love for those who were aging and infirm, ministering to them with compassion and tenderness.

Above all, LaVell treasured his family. He adored Mary Jane and missed her profoundly after her passing four years ago. While LaVell was known to be a firecracker, his ability to communicate love and affection created deeply loving bonds between him and his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His children never doubted his love, confidence, or quiet encouragement to be their best selves. His grandchildren—who lovingly called him “Pop Pop”—were his greatest joy. He delighted in spending time with each of his 13 grandchildren and 8 (soon to be 9) great-grandchildren, celebrating their lives, achievements, and growing families with pride and affection.

During his final years at The Ridge Assisted Living, LaVell continued to share his humor and gratitude for the kindness that was shown to him. His family is deeply appreciative of the loving care he received there.

LaVell is survived by his four children and their spouses: Ann (Gary) Millward, Scott (Ann) Bracken, Jason (Bonnie) Bracken, and Tiffany (Ken) Jenkins; his sister-in-law Sherry Hoggard; and brother-in-law Richard (Pam) Watkins. We take comfort knowing his long-awaited reunion with his sweetheart,, parents and sisters is now complete

Funeral Services for LaVell will be held on Saturday, November 1st, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Ward Building at 4032 South 2300 East, Holladay, with a viewing from 9:00 AM - 10:45 AM. Interment will take place at Elysian Burial Gardens 1075 East 4580 South, Millcreek.

To stream services: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81543945565