Brent Douglas Sheets

Brent was born on May 19, 1955, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Don Worthen Sheets and Dorothy May Leavitt. He was raised in Holladay, which remained home to him for most of his life. At the age of eight, Brent was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes—a lifelong challenge he carried with courage, discipline, and quiet strength.

He graduated from Skyline High School in 1973 and later served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Montana. There, he spent much of his time among Native American communities and developed a deep respect for their culture and people.

Upon returning home, Brent earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from the University of Utah, followed by a Master’s degree in Biomechanics from Indiana University. He later completed doctoral coursework at Brigham Young University in Athletic Administration. A devoted sports fan, Brent loved following the athletic programs of all three universities and was especially thrilled to see Indiana University compete in the College Football Championship.

While attending Indiana University, Brent married Tori, with whom he had two daughters, Heather and Courtney. Brent was a proud and loving father, and grandfather to four grandchildren, Haylee Moore, Aiden Moore, Camden Moore, and Maggie McFarland. He was actively involved in their lives, cherishing the time he spent helping to raise them.

Brent’s work was never just a career, it was an extension of his love for sports, mentorship, and community. He was often heard saying “If you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life”. He spent many years of his adult life refereeing basketball and volleyball, at both the high school and collegiate level and earned recognition from the Utah State Sports Commission for his years of service. He later found his professional home in aquatic and fitness leadership, managing facilities such as the Clearfield Public Pool, Raging Waters, and the Steiner Aquatic Center.

During his time at Steiner Aquatic Center, Brent’s steady leadership and dedication were recognized on a national level. He was named “Aquatic Director of the Year” by the United States Fitness Association, and under his direction, Steiner received the National Aquatic Program Award.

Brent later served as Executive Director of the Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center, as well as being instrumental in the operation and development of the Olympic Oval, this is where he spent the final years of his career and was a job and community he took great pride in serving.

He is survived by his brother Brian (Emilie) Sheets; his sister Jacklyn (Dennis) Larsen; his daughters Heather McFarland and Courtney Sheets; and his four beloved grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews, who loved and adored him.

A viewing will be held on February 14th from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel located at 2675 East 4430 South, Holladay, Utah. Interment will take place at Wasatch Lawn Park and Mortuary, 3401 South Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Brent leaves behind a legacy of kindness, commitment, and care—felt most deeply by those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.