Jay was born on February 27th, 1928 to Evelyn Swenson and Lachoneous Harman and was raised alongside his four sisters on a Granger countryside farm in the rural Salt Lake Valley.
Much of what shaped Dad’s life was a result of life in the valley and learning the ethic of hard work by farming and contributing to the family welfare. His life was exemplified by his tireless work to make a living, provide lasting memories for his wife and children, reaching out to help others wherever he could, and looking for opportunities to make life better for all. He was truly a selfless servant and steadfastly strived to live a Christ-centered life.
Jay served honorably as a Navel Seaman in the United States Navy while taking leave from his high school studies. Dad mentioned regularly that, “There was never a time I didn’t want to serve my country.” Upon his discharge from service, he returned to finish school and resumed life with his parents and his four sisters on their family farm.
Jay was fortunate to attend Granite High School in Salt Lake City where he had the opportunity to meet the love of his life, Mary Dorcas Moss an eastside socialite exploding with energy and enthusiasm. They married in the Salt Lake Temple on September 30th, 1948. What a blessing this union is, and will continue to be, as its impact ripples out through eternity.
Jay spent the rest of his amazing productive life on the White Homestead where he built his home on the property acquired from his mother and father-in-law. This provided many opportunities for the family to create memories of hard work, family comradery, and spiritual nourishment, but also a great deal of enjoyment which will be forever cherished. Jay had many talents as an artist and wood carver who mastered the art of shaping wood and harnessed the virtues of dirt through gardening. His hands knew no project that couldn’t be accomplished and the books he read would fill libraries. Dad was the prototype of getting things done.
Jay and Mary served as missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in many capacities such as the Intercity, Welfare Services and Family History. He also served faithfully in the wards where he lived.
Anyone who has met our father comes away with the impression that they have met a genuinely good man. His smile and laughter were perpetual and contagious. His kindness and concern for others was moving and inspiring. He was always willing to share what he had and to help those in need. His outlook and positive nature were infectious. Even up until his final days here he would say, "I'm happy!" Oh, what a joy he was to be around! What a legacy he has left for his posterity!
Dad rejoins his loving wife Mary, his parents, and his sisters Darlene and Ila Rae. Surviving are his sisters Janice Dabb (Larry) and Doris Jones. He has gone ahead to make ready for the reunion of his beloved children: daughters Susan (Vern) and Jill (Phil), and sons Richard (Suzanne), Wade (Susie) and Brett (Jill) and for all his children’s children to follow. Jay’s posterity numbers 24 grandchildren, 61 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren of which he truly loved and admired.
A viewing will be held at the Kenwood Ward meeting house located at 3080 South Kenwood Street in Salt Lake City, March 24th from 10:00am to 10:45am. Funeral Services will be held March 24th, 2021 at the Kenwood meeting house.
