Gerry E. McArthur
Gerry Evan McArthur, a loving husband, devoted father, cherished "Papa," and beloved educator, passed away suddenly, on November 4, 2026, at the age of 86, just weeks shy of his 87th birthday.
His life was a masterclass in loyalty, dedication, hard work, forgiveness and unconditional love. Born the day after Christmas, 1939, in the unique setting of the front parlor of the Bishop’s Storehouse in Ephraim, Utah, Gerry entered the world with a story to tell. He was raised in Mt. Pleasant, Utah, where he spent his youth learning the value of honest labor on the family farm. In a post-war America, it was his mother’s forward-thinking inspiration and belief in him that encouraged him to pursue higher education—a path that would ultimately shape the lives of many.
Gerry turned that opportunity into a 34-year career as an incredible teacher, serving his entire tenure within Rich County School District. By the time he retired, his classroom had become a generational rite of passage; he proudly taught the children of many of his first students. His impact as an educator extended far beyond textbooks, leaving a legacy of kindness, curiosity, and encouragement.
Gerry was a loyal and loving husband to his wife, ReNae, building a beautiful life anchored in devotion and mutual respect. As a father, he dedicated his very existence to raising his daughters, pouring his heart, wisdom, and strength into their dreams. He selflessly spent countless hours in the gym, helping his daughters hone their athletic talents. Night after night, he drove hours each way for their practices, making the long journey home late into the night just to support their dreams.
That immense capacity for love only multiplied when he became "Papa." He was intentionally and deeply involved in the lives of his seven beautiful grandchildren and his great-granddaughter, making sure each one knew how profoundly they were loved.
Gerry lived a life quietly dedicated to service and possessed a rare, Christlike gift for connecting with others. Within his Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saint faith, he loved serving as a dedicated ministering brother. He was consistently given ministering assignments to inactive members of the Church or individuals who wouldn't let anyone else past their front door. Because of his innate ability to form deeply meaningful and welcoming relationships, he unlocked closed doors and brought warmth and belonging back into the lives of many who felt forgotten.
He is survived by his loving wife, ReNae McArthur; his daughters, Teresa (Matt) Taylor, Camilla McArthur, and Tanya (Brandon) Birch; his seven adored grandchildren, Payton (Samantha) Taylor, Maleah Taylor, Ellyse Taylor, Keira Birch, Olivia Birch, Avery Birch, and Devin Birch; and his precious great-granddaughter, Emma Louise Taylor. He also leaves behind a community of former students, neighbors, and friends who will miss his warmth, his stories, and his gentle guidance.
Gerry was reunited in death with his parents, Evan and Thelma Thomson McArthur, as well as his brother Brent Hal, who was killed in the Vietnam War, and his infant siblings, Jay and Sherry Veloy.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 13th, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Mt. Pleasant 5th Ward building (49 South State Street). A viewing will take place prior to the services on Friday morning at the 5th Ward building from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Mt. Pleasant Emergency Personnel who worked tirelessly in their efforts to save his life.
To Watch Funeral Services Live, Click Here. The Live Zoom Link will Activate at 10:45 a.m.
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