Dean Smith Layton

It is with full hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Dean Smith Layton, on February 12, 2026.

Dean was born on October 3, 1939, in Ogden, Utah to Julia and Golden Layton. He was the second of two sons and grew up on the family farm in Layton, where he spent his days picking cantaloupes, weeding onions, and learning the value of hard work alongside his family. He shared a lifelong bond with his older brother, Ronald, who remained his best friend and daily phone companion throughout the years.

A gifted and determined young man, Dean excelled both academically and athletically. In high school, he was a four-sport athlete, competing in football, basketball, wrestling, and track. After graduation, he attended Brigham Young University before serving a mission in Southern Australia for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Upon returning home, he enrolled at Utah State University, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering—and met the love of his life, JoEllen Larsen.

Dean and JoEllen were married on Friday the 13th and proved that day lucky indeed, sharing 63 wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service, eventually settling in Phoenix, where they raised their four children.

Dean was the kind of father every child hopes for—dependable, patient (unless you left the lights on), and always present. He showed up not only for the big milestones, but for the ordinary days, the frequent phone calls, and the heavy moments when life required steady strength. His quiet love carried his family through challenges and shaped who they are today.

Dean had a strong testimony of his Savior, Jesus Christ, which was best shared through the way he lived his life. By example he taught his children how to work hard, stand tall when things were tough, and treat others with kindness and respect. He lived a life marked by integrity, character, and consistency—qualities reflected not only in his actions, but even in his familiar wardrobe of flannel shirts and well-worn Crocs.

His greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, JoEllen; his four children and their spouses: Greg (Sue Ann), Keri (John), Julie (Derrick), and Brian (Amy); 19 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. Each child and grandchild felt certain they were his favorite—a testament to the way he loved.

Dean enjoyed a successful career in Electrical Engineering before retiring. In retirement, he continued serving others by driving a school bus for 23 years, becoming a familiar and beloved presence to countless students and their families. He also faithfully served in many church leadership callings over the years, but his favorite roles were serving alongside JoEllen as nursery and primary teachers, spending time shooting hoops with the young men and planning activities and working with the young single adults.

He worked hard and never asked for applause. He understood that the true measure of life is not found in titles or possessions, but in the family you build and the love you leave behind.

Dean has returned to the loving arms of his parents and brother who have been waiting to welcome him home. His life was a gift. His love was a blessing. He will be deeply and fiercely missed until we are reunited again.

A memorial will be held at the Kaysville City Cemetery on February 28th, 10am. He will be laid to rest alongside his parents and brother.