1953 ~ 2026
Mary Ann Arrington, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully in her home on February 25, 2026. A woman of steadfast faith and deep capacity for love, she leaves behind a legacy of service and a family who was the absolute center of her world.
Born in Salt Lake City on December 11, 1953, to Gilda Hekking, Mary Ann grew up as a pillar of support for her mother and three siblings. From a young age, her nurturing spirit was evident as she spent her youth caring for her brothers and sister—a responsibility she carried with deep love.
Mary Ann’s lifelong devotion to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began in elementary school when a friend invited her to attend. That spark became an unwavering testimony that guided her every step. After graduating from West High School, she served a mission in Upper State New York, where she met the love of her life, Dale Arrington. Their connection was immediate; shortly after returning home, they were engaged and married three weeks later in the Salt Lake City Temple on September 10, 1976.
Mary Ann was a tireless servant in her community and Church. Whether she was teaching as the Gospel Doctrine instructor for many years, leading the children as Primary President, or serving in the Relief Society Presidency, her influence was felt by all. She didn't just hold callings; she loved the members of her ward and lived as a constant example of Christlike service.
While she served many, Mary Ann’s heart belonged to her husband and five children: Keldon, Kevin, Kimberly, Kacee, Klinton and her ten grandchildren. She was famously known as a "worry wart"—a title she wore as a badge of honor because her worry was simply a reflection of her deep, endless love. Her children and grandchildren never had to wonder if they were loved; they felt it through her every action and example.
When she wasn't serving others, Mary Ann was an avid reader. A fan of Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, and murder mysteries, she was known to take a marker to any book with "salty" language, personally editing out the bad words to keep the stories pure. She enjoyed watching her shows at night, The X-Files, and British dramas like Broadchurch, Luther and Sherlock, almost always with a cold, full-sugar Pepsi in hand.
Mary Ann is survived by her devoted husband, Dale; her children, Keldon (daughters Mila, Lyra, and Sophie), Kevin, Kimberly (husband Kevin Brown; children Dawson, Gaven, and Madelyn), Kacee (wife Melanie), and Klinton (wife Heather; children Kooper, Logan, Benson, and Charlotte).
She is also survived by her brothers Mark (Pam) Brunson, Robert Schacht, and Michael Schacht; her brother-in-laws Robert Arrington and Kenneth Holder; and her sisters-in-law Penny (Blair) Butler, Kathryn (Lyle) Thornley, Patricia (Rulon) Jemmett, Janis (Tony) Kelley, and Nancy (Jay) Thomas.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Gilda Schacht, and her sister, Gilda Kay Holder.
A viewing will be held Saturday March 7, 2026 from 10:00-10:45 am, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am. The services will be held at the Latter-day Saint Ward located at 3450 W, 3100 S, West Valley City, Utah.
Interment to take place at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
Those wishing to view the service via Zoom can click "Watch Service" or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/vW3g8eZqxGEwEHP5BC-KsHINOebpHOzvGQG1ZUgqAYozvERIuPtC3x3nP_X8NTSo.qAWbp-J8KdWDM4D6?startTime=1772905726000
I remember some of the lessons MaryAnn taught, with such a beautiful spirit. You left feeling uplifted and motivated to be a better person. I have been out of the Westlake Ward for many years but some people leave a lasting impression. May the Lord's love and peace bless you and your family.