Forrest Alfred Crofts September 10, 1954 ~ April 14, 2026

Forrest Alfred Crofts was born on September 10, 1954 in Panguitch, Utah to John M & Marjorie R Crofts. He was the youngest boy in the family and the fifth of six children born to his loving parents. He quickly learned the importance of family and hard work as he helped with the family sawmill business.
Forrest first moved from Panguitch between his Sophomore and Junior years of high school when his family relocated to Vernal, UT. He graduated from Uintah High School with the class of 1972.
After graduating high school, he attended the College of Eastern Utah in Price, UT. This is where he met a young lady that would change his life forever. Shirley Redd and Forrest fell in love as they enjoyed college life with their roommates and mutual friends.
He served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Hong Kong. His mission began at the Language Training Mission in Hawaii, where he started to learn the Cantonese language.
When reflecting on his mission, he described Hong Kong as a concrete jungle, and expressed his gratitude for growing up in a beautiful country with lots of wide open spaces.
After returning from his missionary service, he was sealed to his eternal companion on January 28, 1976 in the St George Utah Temple. They made their first home together in Ogden, UT where Forrest was attending Weber St University.
The couple later moved to Vernal, UT where their first son, Jason was born. Forrest & Shirley made their way to Blanding, UT where they added 3 more sons, Zeb, Farley, and Skyler.
Forrest spent the first half of his working life in Blanding at Parley Redd’s Foodtown. After the store was sold, he worked for Holliday Construction.
He ended his working career as an employee of the Utah Department of Transportation. In each position he held, he made lasting connections and mirrored the dedication he learned working for the family sawmill.
Faith in the Savior Jesus Christ was a cornerstone of his life. This was expressed in many ways, but faithful service as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was a hallmark.
Forrest served as a Bishop, Primary Teacher, Sunday School Teacher, many Young Men’s callings, Bluff Branch, Young Single Adult Representative, and as a faithful home teacher and minister. In all callings and settings he expressed his testimony in words and the way he interacted with others.
Retirement opened doors for him to dedicate time to what he loved. He was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. Loading up the side by side for an adventure, having a cookout at the fire pit, going to the newest movie, or snuggling up with a grandkid perched on the arm of his recliner were joyful moments.
He was also able to serve as a temple worker in the Monticello Temple with Shirley. Taking care of his chickens, taking care of the house and yard, and masterminding projects for everyone brought him a lot of purpose and happiness.
Forrest passed away peacefully in his home on April 14, 2026. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Dave Robertson, and his granddaughter Brooklyn Crofts. He is survived by his siblings Muriel (Wolf) Mennsen, Sandra (Wayne) Holman, Susan Robertson, JB (Sherry) Crofts, Miriam (Stephen) Force, his wife, Shirley Redd, children Jason Crofts, Zeb (Hilary) Crofts, Farley (Tina) Crofts, Skyler (Ruth) Crofts, and grandchildren Colee, Camden, Jaylen, Cal, Abby, Andi, Bree, Benson, and Madi.
The family would like to thank the staff at San Juan Health and Zions Way Hospice for the care and support given to Forrest over the last few months. A heartfelt thanks is also due to the countless people that have offered prayers, service, and support on our behalf.