Gary Roy Crump's Obituary
Holladay, UT — Gary Roy Crump, 88, passed peacefully on November 21, 2025, surrounded by his children and his sweetheart, Helen Joan. Born in Salt Lake City on April 17, 1937, to Roy and Behula Crump, Gary lived a life filled with purpose, good humor, and deep devotion to his family and faith.
Gary learned early what it meant to work hard and take care of the people he loved. When his father became physically disabled, young Gary stepped up in ways far beyond his years. By age 14, he was eager to start his first job at Grand Central stocking shelves. His dad jokingly warned him, “Are you sure, Gary? Because once you start working, you’ll never stop.” Gary loved to laugh about that moment for the rest of his life—mostly because it turned out to be absolutely true. He loved working, loved people, and proudly kept at it well into his seventies.
Interruptions made graduating from the University of Utah an adventure. By age 25, Gary had already served in the Army twice and on two missions for the LDS Church. He eventually found his way into teaching economics and U.S. history at Skyline High School, a job he truly enjoyed. But by 1969, with a growing family, Gary made the tough decision to leave teaching and begin a long, successful career selling textbooks. It turned out to be the right move—he was a natural. He earned Salesman of the Year ten times, and more importantly, he supported the people he loved most.
Gary met the love of his life, Helen Joan Christiansen, when he was 27. They married on May 1, 1964, in Salt Lake City and spent the next six decades building a beautiful life together in Holladay, Utah. They raised seven children, created countless family traditions, and filled their home with love, laughter, and the friendly chaos his family affectionally calls “Crumpapalooza.”
Gary is preceded in death by his granddaughter Julie Ann and his son-in-law Rob. He is survived by his sweetheart Helen, their children Teri Black (Ken), Julene Penrose (Gary), Anita Weaver (Dave), Elizabeth Easton (Jeff), Jonathan (Tawnya), Suzi Fordham (Chris), Charlie (Kathy), his sister Connie, and a large and loving posterity who will forever feel his influence.
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Milo Way Chapel, 2625 Milo Way, Holladay, Utah. A visitation will take place Friday morning from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment will follow at the Holladay Memorial Cemetery.
Arrangements are entrusted to Premier Funeral Services. For condolences and full obituary details, please visit their website. Flowers can be sent to 2181 Millstream Lane, Salt Lake City Utah, 84109
What’s your fondest memory of Gary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gary?
Share a story where Gary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gary you’ll never forget.
How did Gary make you smile?
