Byron "J" Horrocks Obituary (1930 - 2018)

Byron “J” Horrocks passed away March 12, 2018 shortly after his 88th birthday. Though small in stature, he was a giant of a man with a heart as big as all outdoors. Born on March 1, 1930, Byron was the only child of Otis Joseph Horrocks and Mary Ellen Adams. They lived on a farm in Bennett, Utah After moving to Salt Lake City, Byron met his eternal companion Vera Leone Rowley. They were married in the Idaho Falls Temple on April 11, 1958. Byron did great things in a quiet unassuming way. He loved to make others happy. He loved talking with people and looking for ways to brighten someone’s day. He had a gift for making everyone feel loved and important. He found great joy in serving and always thought of others before himself. As a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served 6 missions, 5 of them with his sweetheart. While serving, they made friendships that have lasted throughout their lives. Byron served his country in the Coast Guard from 1952-1955. On his 80th Birthday he was honored for that service by those restoring the lighthouse where he served in Crescent City, California. Although he accomplished many things in his life, Byron’s greatest achievement was that of father. He loved his children dearly and sacrificed much for them. As his children married he never thought of their spouses as in-laws. They too became his children and he loved them like his own. Byron is survived by his wife Vera, his children Julie Oldham (Brian), Kathy McBride (David), Byron Horrocks Jr (Cindy) and Mary Alice King (Ryan), 8 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren with one on the way. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sweet granddaughter, Adrianne McBride. Friends may visit on Thursday March 15 at the LDS Chapel 8950 S 1300 W West Jordan, UT from 6:30 – 8:00 pm or Friday March 16, 2018 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the funeral services at 11:00 am. The influence of a life well lived will be felt throughout eternity. Until we meet again Pops, we love you! Online condolences at www.jenkins-soffe.com