F. Bennion Redd

September 16, 1921 ~ March 31, 2009

F. Bennion Redd, 87, passed away on March 31, 2009 in Monticello, Utah.

He was born September 16, 1921, the son of L. Frank and Nettie R. Redd.

He graduated from Monticello High School, served the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the New England States Mission, and served in the United States Army during World War II, attaining the rank of 1st Lieutenant.

He graduated from the University of Utah, receiving degrees in law and military science. He was a member of Phi Delta Phi legal fraternity, Kappa Sigma social fraternity, and Delta Phi fraternity for returned missionaries.

He married Margaret Whitton in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on March 21, 1949. They had three children, Grayson, Scott, and Jana. “Marge” died on February 14, 1954 following an automobile accident.

He married Ivalou Sperry in November, 1955 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. She brought two sons, Don and Vernon, to the family both of whom Bennion adopted.

Two more children, An and Frank, were born to Bennion and Ivalou. Ivalou passed away in 1975.

Bennion practiced law in Monticello for over 59 years and served as San Juan County Attorney for 28 years. He was appointed United States Federal Magistrate/Judge in 1979, serving for 28 years. Bennion was the owner and manager of Lex Realty. He was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from the College of Eastern Utah. Southern Utah University in Cedar City honored him at their Founders’ Day Celebration as one who had contributed significantly to his community.

He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served as Bishop of the Monticello Second Ward and in many other church callings. He was a faithful worker in the Monticello Temple.

Bennion was a much-loved stalwart in the community and in all of southeast Utah. He was known for his generosity and concern for others. He was one who “made a difference” in the lives of many.

He is survived by his children, Don (Karen), Vernon (Andrea), Grayson (Jan), Scott (Kathy), An (Jon) Bradshaw, and Frank (Lynnette), 43 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren; sisters Maxine R. Frost, Lucy Redd, Helen Klaire (Peter) Binder, and Marilyn (Doyle) Rowley.

He is preceded in death by his parents, two wives, a daughter and son-in-law (Jana R. and Ron Young), and sisters Rae R. Smith and Josie (Jo) Redd.

Funeral services wereheld April 6 in Monticello. Interment in the Monticello City Cemetery. Send condolences to the family online at www.sanjuanmortuary.com.