Joseph Larry Memmott
November 14, 1936 – March 21, 2025
Joseph Larry Memmott, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on November 14, 1936, in Colonia Dublan, Chihuahua, Mexico, Larry’s life was a testament to faith, family, hard work, and a deep love for the land. His work ethic and devotion to those he loved were unparalleled, and he left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Larry married the love of his life, Shirley Catherine Willis, in the Mesa, Arizona Temple in 1963. Together, they raised seven children: Larry (Laurissa), Hugh (Jan), Laura (Jeremy), Robert (Jill), James “Meb” (Kristine), Grant (Kelly), and Elizabeth “Buffy.” His family was at the center of his heart, and he devoted his life to supporting and guiding them with his example and wisdom. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Nilus Memmott, and three of his four siblings. He is survived by his wife and children, his brother, John (Joyce), and his brother-in-law, Jerald Taylor (Sharon). They and his friends will carry his legacy of hard work, service, and energy. His impact will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
In 1957, Larry answered the call to serve as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. From 1957-60, he served in the Brazilian mission, marking the beginning of his lifelong devotion to helping others. One of Larry’s most cherished contributions was organizing yearly temple trips from Mexico to Mesa, Arizona, for the local members of the church. For many years, Larry devoted his time and energy to arranging these trips, ensuring that families could attend the temple and experience spiritual blessings. Later, he and Shirley served as mission leaders in Porto Alegre North, Brazil, from 1991-1994, where they touched many lives. They also served as temple president and matron in Veracruz, Mexico, from 2006- 2009. His service was a testament to his deep faith and desire to help others grow spiritually.
Larry graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Husbandry from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. His education laid the foundation for his lifelong passion for ranching, cattle, and agriculture. This degree, combined with his unwavering work ethic, led to his success in the cattle industry and beyond. He owned cattle ranches in both Old and New Mexico. Larry was a founding member of Paquime, an agricultural cooperative in Nuevo Casas Grandes, Mexico, where local farmers thrived. He was also a founding member of a meat-packing plant in Chihuahua, Mexico, where he played a vital role in the development of the local meat industry. His contributions to agriculture and the community were numerous and made a lasting impact in the region. Larry was also deeply committed to his community. He served as a city council member in Nuevo Casas Grandes, where he worked to improve the local area and support its growth. He also served on several bank boards, helping to guide financial institutions in the region and ensure their success. His sense of responsibility to his community was one of the many ways he showed his dedication to improving the lives of those around him.
One of Larry’s great passions was for flying. He took flying lessons in secret, surprising those around him when he eventually purchased a Cessna 206. His love for aviation eventually became more than just a hobby; Larry used his piloting skills to serve others as a volunteer Life-flight pilot. Whether it was transporting family, neighbors, or those in need of urgent medical care, Larry’s selflessness and commitment to helping others soared through the skies. His ability to navigate both the ranch and the air made him an extraordinary man who balanced two very different worlds with grace.
Larry also had a deep love for finding bargains at auctions. He enjoyed scouting out the best deals for his businesses. Whether it was a tractor, some old tools, or who knows what else, Larry always had a keen eye for a bargain — but it wasn’t always about what he was buying. It was the thrill of the chase and the satisfaction of winning that kept him coming back for more. You could always count on Larry to leave an auction with a smile on his face and a few more treasures than he’d planned on. Larry thoroughly enjoyed a steak and potatoes meal, and/or good Mexican food. He also took great pride in how he presented himself, always dressing well and making a consistent effort to look nice. This attention to detail was part of the way he approached life with care and respect for those around him.
Never one to talk about himself, Larry was known for his quiet, selfless service. He frequently helped those in need in secret, never seeking recognition; he simply showed up when it mattered most. His life was a living example of integrity, and devotion to both family and faith.
Services are under the direction of Olpin Family Mortuary in Pleasant Grove, Utah.
His funeral service will be held at 1548 North 900 West, Pleasant Grove, UT, on April 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with a viewing from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. The interment will immediately follow the funeral at the Lindon City Cemetery.
We thank his hospice nurses, Natalie, Randi, Julie and all the staff at Covington and Spring Gardens.