Max Clark Jolley

Max Clark Jolley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. His life was one of faithful service, deep devotion to family, and quiet strength.

Clark was born on June 17, 1948, in Provo, Utah, to Max Earl Jolley and Clella Clark Jolley. He was the oldest of five children and learned early the values of responsibility and kindness. He graduated from Granite High School and later attended Southern Utah University.

On April 22, 1968, Clark enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country for four years. While stationed in Florida, he met the love of his life, Barbara Rudd. Their courtship led to a marriage sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on June 1, 1970.

In 1971, while Clark and Barbara were stationed in Taichung, Taiwan they welcomed their first daughter, Cathy. Clark completed his military service with honor, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. After his discharge, the family returned to Salt Lake City, where they had six more children: Christy, Mark, Rob, Caroline, Cheryl, and Brian.

Clark cherished his roles as a husband and father above all else. He was the ultimate family man, always placing the needs of his family first. He loved being with people and was happiest when surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors. He especially enjoyed coaching Little League for his children and cheering them on at all their events.

An avid runner, Clark completed more than 50 marathons. His favorite was the St. George Marathon, where he proudly belonged to the 25-Year Club. He loved to run with his children and was able to run a marathon with each one of them. Family time was treasured, particularly trips to Bear Lake and St. George. Evenings spent up Big Cottonwood Canyon roasting marshmallows, cooking hot dogs, and throwing rocks into the river were also a special memory.

Clark dedicated 41 years as a clerk with the United States Postal Service, earning the respect of coworkers and patrons alike with his kindness.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Clark had an unwavering testimony of Jesus Christ and the Plan of Salvation. He served faithfully in many callings, including as a beloved bishop of the Butler 33rd Ward. He was a gifted teacher and passionate scriptorian who especially enjoyed teaching youth Sunday School and Gospel Doctrine classes. Throughout his final days, he continued to bear testimony of the Savior and lovingly taught and counseled his children and grandchildren, strengthening them in faith until the very end.

From September 2018 to March 2020, Clark and Barbara served in the Florida Tallahassee Mission and were assigned to labor in Andalusia, Alabama. Having first met in Florida, they were delighted to return to the South and grew to deeply love the people they met there.

In March 2023, Clark and Barbara relocated to West Haven, Utah, to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Their grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he rarely missed an opportunity to attend their games, performances, and activities.

Clark is survived by his eternal companion, Barbara Jolley; their children: Cathy (Doug) Peterson, Christy (Matt) Williams, Mark (Staci) Jolley, Rob (Kristen) Jolley, Caroline (Mitch) Pebley, Cheryl (Matt) Stuart, and Brian (Charisa) Jolley; 36 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren, with two more eagerly anticipated; and his siblings: Gordon (Jean) Jolley, Sherry (Bill) Varley, Burke (Elaine) Jolley, and Tony (Sandi) Jolley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Max Earl and Clella Clark Jolley, and his in-laws, Glen L. and Marva Rudd.

Clark’s legacy of faith, service, humility, and love will live on through the countless lives he touched and the family he cherished.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the West Haven Stake Center, 3330 S. 4700 W. Friends may visit with family on Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lindquist’s Roy Mortuary, 3333 W. 5600 S. and on Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment, West Haven City Cemetery.

Services will be live streamed and available at the bottom of Clark's obituary page.

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