Glenna Lee Utley

Glenna Lee Utley 1936 ~ 2010 Glenna Lee Utley was born on September 04, 1936. She passed away in peace on December 25, 2010, surrounded by those who loved her most."I'm her favorite!" The revelation always ran through the minds of her four children and ten grandchildren. It was quite a feat to convince each one that they were the most important, the most loved in that moment. But that's what Glenna did: delivered an undivided attention and devoted love that only she could. The sweet embrace of her open arms always felt like home. Her smile warmed your heart after some time apart. She was always the safest place. Glenna grew up in Missouri and at the age of 15 moved to Salt Lake City with her mom. Soon after moving to Utah she met Samuel Keith Utley on a blind date. She later married Keith on June 04, 1954. Together, they defined what it was to be soul mates. Through their combined brilliance, work ethic, and love, they built a beautiful family. The two were world travelers, an achievement that gave Glenna great pride. She loved to tell tales of their latest excursions. From the great glaciers in Alaska, to the mystical Mayan ruins of Mexico, to the streets of Europe, and the fields of New Zealand, she saw the world. Her life experience traveling only added to a sharp wit and brilliant mind. Glenna cultivated her business acumen with Zions Bancorp, where she led a second career as a loan officer. But she was always a mom first, a field in which there was none better. Her business savvy and knowledge of the world contributed to many spirited philosophical and political debates, none of which she ever lost. There was a beautiful brilliance about her and what she understood about the world, how hard it could be, and the risks that were out there. She prepared her children and grandkids for it through gentle lessons and unwavering love. And that's where her compassion was felt the most and her legacy will last the longest. Glenna is survived by her three children, their spouses, one daughter-in-law, and a brother, Paul. Gary and Sharilee Sanchez, the oldest daughter, whose gentle care and sweet love gave her mom great peace. Randy and Suzanne Crocket, the youngest daughter, was the princess. Her little boy, Glen and wife Susie Utley, held a special place in her heart. Kathleen Grace Gregory, who Glenna treated as one of her own daughters. Glenna leaves behind nine grandchildren, every one of which being her favorite. There are 13 little ones who knew Glenna as great grandma. Glenna was preceded in death by the love of her life, Samuel Keith Utley, who may once again take a long walk down the fairway with his beloved wife. Her son, Jeffrey Keith Utley, who was the source of so much pride. Her grandson, Jesse O'Leary Utley, who loved her dearly. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 31, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at Valley View Funeral Home, 4335 West 4100 South, West Valley City. A viewing the day of the funeral will start at 10:00 a.m.. Friends and family are invited to a viewing the evening before, on Thursday, December 30, 2010, between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m.. Interment will follow services on Friday.