Leonard Prosper Pavia Sr's Obituary
Leonard Prosper Pavia, Sr., 85, of Saratoga Springs, Utah, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Monday, August 11, 2025. Born on August 5, 1940, in Syracuse, New York, to Eduardo and Angeline Basile Pavia. He attended an all-boys Christian Academy, worked in his father’s butcher shop, and briefly attended Syracuse University, remaining a loyal fan of the Orangemen throughout his life.
On May 13, 1961, Len married his high-school sweetheart, Judith Charlotte Hayford, in Pocatello, Idaho. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Los Angeles, California Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on July 24, 1962.
Len earned a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, continued his education with an MBA, and built a distinguished 30-year career in Quality Control at Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan. After retiring, he continued to share his expertise as a private consultant, taught at Utah Valley University, and devoted countless hours to volunteer work. At Thanksgiving Point, Len served for over 20 years, giving more than 5,000 hours of service in roles that reflected his curiosity and kindness — from Bug Guide and Butterfly Biosphere docent to Baby Animal Days lead, garden guide, and Paleo Studio facilitator.
Len had a testimony and love of the gospel of Jesus Christ and lived what he believed. With his beloved companion, he faithfully served two missions for the Church, including 18 months at BYU-Hawaii. Together, Len and Judy also served as Branch President and companion in Detroit, Michigan, where they blessed the lives of many. He dedicated many years as a Scoutmaster, guiding and mentoring countless young men, instilling in them the values of service, integrity, and faith.
An avid lover of the outdoors, Len could often be found skiing, golfing, gardening, or watching a favorite sporting event. He also carried forward his Italian heritage with pride, delighting family and friends with his homemade ravioli and antipasto salad at holiday gatherings. Known for his kind eyes, generosity, and dedication to his family, Len’s greatest joy came from time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Together they raised five children: Kenneth S. Pavia (Seini) of Sandy, UT; Leonard P. Pavia, Jr. (Lori) of Greer, SC; Karrie S. Wurtzbacher (Corey) of Marana, AZ; Curt M. Pavia (Holly) of Bellingham, WA; and Christopher E. Pavia (Sasha) of Highland, UT. Len is also survived by his brothers Edward Pavia and Russell Pavia, 13 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy, and his sister Patricia Taranto.
On Saturday, August 23, 2025, a viewing will be held from 9:45am – 10:45am, followed by the funeral service at 11:00am at the Saratoga Springs Stake Center, 587 S. Saratoga Road, Saratoga Springs, Utah, 84045. Interment will follow at Orem City Cemetery.
Flowers may be sent to 337 E. Pavilion Circle, Saratoga Springs, UT 84045, OR donations may be made in Len’s memory to Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, Utah at thanksgivingpoint.org.
What’s your fondest memory of Leonard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Leonard?
Share a story where Leonard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Leonard you’ll never forget.
How did Leonard make you smile?
