Russell Sly

Russell Melvin Sly, aged 87, of Payson, Utah, peacefully passed away on December 10, 2024, in Springville, Utah, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 13, 1937, in Beaver, Utah, Russ was the cherished son of Thurland Dale Sly and Alma Flora Edwards Sly. He completed his high school education in 1954 at Milford High School, located in the close-knit railroad community of Milford, Utah. In this small town, residents shared many activities, from drama productions and dance bands to football, hunting, horse riding, and jeeping. Russ and his father even built a cabin from railroad ties, which remains standing to this day. Russ's musical talent, particularly with the saxophone, emerged at a young age when he joined the high school band in the 6th grade. His group delighted audiences with weekly performances on the local radio station.

Russ dedicated a period of his life to serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Gulf States Mission, which included Texas. Following this, he pursued higher education at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he was awarded a music scholarship. Attending BYU provided him with the opportunity to join the ROTC program. It was during his time at BYU that he met Geniel Ashcraft, who was working as a nurse's aide in the same building. Their love story culminated in marriage at the Manti Temple on December 20, 1961. Despite a severe winter storm on their wedding day, a human chain was formed to safely guide guests up the many steps to the temple doors, ensuring that their special day was shared with loved ones.

Russ and Geniel spent four years serving in the Air Force, a period during which their son Jeff was born in England. Two years later, their daughter Becky was born in Turkey. After his military service, Russ transitioned to a career in commercial aviation. This new chapter in their lives saw the birth of their daughter Carolyn in California, followed by Vivian later in Washington. The family settled in Enumclaw, near Mt. Rainier, where they lived for nearly two decades. This picturesque setting became Russ's playground, where he delighted in sharing family adventures such as horseback riding, water skiing, snow skiing, and camping. They also maintained a small hobby farm. Despite his demanding schedule of long flights across the United States and to various countries in the Orient, Russ always made time for trips to the hills, cherishing every moment spent with his family in the great outdoors.

For many years, Russ was a generous neighbor, using his tractor to clear snow from driveways for residents from Enumclaw, Washington, to Elk Ridge, Utah. As a devoted member of his church, he frequently taught in the Elders Quorum, Sunday School, and as part of the bishopric, where his humor and insightful teachings were greatly appreciated by all. Upon retiring, Russ and Geniel returned to their cherished roots in Utah, eager to explore more canyons and enjoy the closeness of their family.

Russ was a man who constantly sought to improve his surroundings. In Utah, he worked on several projects, including the implementation of a neighborhood pressurized irrigation system, the construction of a series of airport hangars, and serving on the Elk Ridge City Council. He leaves a lasting legacy through his service in the community.

Russ is survived by his four children: Jeff (Liz) Sly of Salem, Utah; Becky (Trent) Purcell of Soap Lake, Washington; Carolyn (Bill) Johnson of Springville, Utah; and Vivian (Todd) Jackson of Marysville, Utah. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Geniel Ashcraft, his parents, Thurland Dale Sly and Alma Flora Edwards Sly, and his infant grandson, Jason Michael Purcell. Russ's legacy continues through his 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, who will cherish his memory and the love he shared with them.

A service to celebrate Russell's life will take place at the Payson Temple Rim Ward building (952 W 1580 S) of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Monday, December 16, 2024. The visitation is scheduled at 9:00-9:45 a.m., with the funeral service following at 10:00 a.m.

Russ's enduring legacy of adventure and craftsmanship will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Condolences can be offered at www.springcreekmortuary.com.

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