On Friday, August 26, 2022, Gary LeGrand Webster turned a page in this life, and began a new chapter. Fiercely loving, deeply faithful, and ceaselessly compassionate in spirit, Gary lived life strongly and fully, while indelibly influencing the lives of countless others.
Surviving Gary are his cherished wife Carol Hollingshaus Webster, his children, Ken Webster (Lisa) and Lisa Webster Haddon (Mike), his grandchildren Jake Webster (Hanah), Nathan Haddon, Chase Webster (Anna), Laura Webster, and Alyssa Haddon, and great grandchild Nellie. Gary’s parting was preceded by his loving parents, Randal and Beatrice Webster.
Gary was born August 10, 1940 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Raised in Midvale, Gary was a proud Jordan High Beetdigger. His thirst for knowledge and understanding carried him through a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and then on to a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Utah. Gary married the love of his life, Carol Hollingshaus on June 21st, 1960 and, together, they raised two tremendous children, Ken and Lisa.
Gary poured himself into service. He dedicated his career and passion to Utah’s justice system, including appointment as Chair of the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole and service both in Utah’s adult and juvenile justice systems. Gary carried a firm belief in people’s ability to change, and the community’s willingness to forgive. His positive and lasting imprint will carry on to generations to follow.
Once retired, Gary did not slow down. His passion and commitment to serving others continued. With Carol, he worked in a variety of LDS callings, mostly at the Utah State Prison, including as Bishop for a congregation there. Gary and Carol particularly valued their time at the prison, and continued volunteering there in other capacities after being released. Gary’s faith was rooted firmly in his Savior. Today he is standing in the presence of and is embraced within the arms of his parents and loved ones who passed before.
Gary’s cars (BMWs of course) always shined like the sun, reflected like a mirror and ran to perfection. Before moving to this new chapter, Grandpa could be found at the gym several times each week staying fit and trim (and socializing). Decades before he was a marathon runner – his loving family holds dear pictures of Gary in his pulled-up tube-socks and broad terry headbands as evidence. Gary was a consummately nice dresser. Presiding over a congregation, bending over a smoking BBQ grill, or lounging at home, you could always count on him to look his finest.
Today, there is a void, but Gary leaves a lasting influence on those who have known him and has established a remarkable example for others to follow. With a strong and close family, Gary knows and feels the love of those who remain, and who commit to carry forward any unfinished work. Gary, we are comforted knowing the joy that now encircles you, and we find peace in knowing that we are simply a chapter behind.
Funeral services for Gary will be held Thursday, September 1st at 11 a.m. at the Holladay 10th Ward building, 4601 South Chapel Street (2565 East). There will be a visitation Wednesday August 31st from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the same address, and again Thursday at 10 a.m. prior to the service. Interment at Memorial Holladay Cemetery.Service Information
Viewing August 31, 2022 at 6:00-8:00 PM
4601 South Chapel Street (2565 East), Holladay, Utah
Viewing September 1, 2022 at 10:00-10:45 AM
4601 South Chapel Street (2565 East), Holladay, Utah
Funeral Service
September 1, 2022 at 11:00 AM
4601 South Chapel Street (2565 East), Holladay, Utah