Mary Joan Larsen Langdon, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, aunt, stepmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2024. She was born on March 3, 1937, in her lifelong home in Salt Lake City, to Nils and Johanna Nygaard Larsen, and she was the younger sister of Dr. Willard Larsen.
Mary was proud of her Norwegian heritage. Her love for education and writing led her to pursue a Master’s degree in journalism from the University of Utah. She dedicated herself to shaping young minds as an A.P. English teacher at Granite and Granger High Schools, where she inspired countless students with her passion for literature and language.
On September 4, 1981, Mary married Roy Monroe Langdon in Elko, Nevada. He brought love and joy into her life, along with his daughters Rita Miller, Louise Weidner, Teresa Taylor, Vicky Atkinson, and Jackie Fox, who became part of Mary's family.
In addition to teaching and nurturing young minds throughout her career as an educator, she had many hobbies that included collecting coins, traveling the world, and shopping. In the last years of her life, Mary found her love for cats, who became her constant companions and brought her much warmth and happiness.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, sister-in-law Arlene Larsen, husband Roy, and her stepdaughter Teresa. She is survived by her nephew Gary Larsen, stepdaughters Rita, Louise, Vicki, and Jackie, as well as her caregiver and friend Marielle Spencer. Mary was a woman of determination and freedom who loved to explore and experience life on her own terms. She will be missed.
Guestbook/Condolences
Thank you for your sweet friendship, Mary. I will always be grateful to you for the incredible life experience I was given from having you in my life. I have been thinking of you so much and can hardly believe it’s been a year since you passed. You are loved and missed and so appreciated. Hope you’re enjoying your place of rest and peace!