L J "Si" Willis

LJ “Si”Willis

August 21, 1934 – October 10, 2025

Lemuel Josiah Willis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully in his home in Pleasant Grove, Utah, on October 10, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on August 21, 1934, in Missoula, Montana, and spent most of his youth in Cowley, Wyoming. Si was the youngest of three children. He grew up in a close-knit family, helping in his father's small drug store and learning the values of hard work and kindness that would define his life.

Si attended Utah State University, where he received a master’s degree in education, and met the love of his life, Dixie Gladys Hansen. After marrying, the two began a lifelong journey together, raising four children — Kim, DeAnn, Steven, and Amy — and building a legacy of love, service, and adventure.

His career as an educator began in Meeteetse, WY, and continued in Kaysville, Utah, where he taught Business and later Graphic Arts. His passion for teaching and mentoring led him to become a department manager at a technical school in Kaysville, where he helped shape the futures of countless students.

Inspired by his father-in-law, Si became an avid outdoorsman. He found joy in hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, and backpacking, often with his family in tow. Their many vacations, packed into the family truck camper, created cherished memories that will live on for generations.

Si was also an avid rockhound and amateur lapidarist. He enjoyed walking the desert with his family and friends searching for semi-precious stones, obsidian, and Leaverite. Si’s love for music was another defining aspect of his life. A talented pianist and choir leader, he brought harmony and spirit to church services. While serving with Dixie in the Conference Center, he would stand on the highest balcony and joyfully "conduct" the Mormon Tabernacle Choir as they sang — a moment that captured his playful heart and deep devotion.

A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Si served faithfully in many roles, including Bishop, and completed several senior missions with Dixie. His life was a testament to service, faith, and compassion. He was a teacher, a mentor, and a friend to all — well, except that one guy. Si will be deeply missed by his wife Dixie, his children, 7 grandchildren, extended family, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A graveside service will be held at the Logan Cemetery in Logan, Utah, to honor and celebrate his remarkable life, Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 1pm. All friends and family are welcome to attend.