William Henry Boston passed away peacefully at his home on the evening of May 30, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 88 years old.
Bill was born in Memphis, Tennessee on May 26, 1937, to William Leroy and Martha Christine Smith Boston. He was one of six siblings and grew up in a loving home where he learned the values of hard work, faith, and family.
While attending BYU, Bill met the love of his life, Karen Cullimore. They were married June 27, 1958, in the Salt Lake Temple. Their partnership was one of devotion and joy, and together they raised four children. He was a proud “Pa” to fifteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, with two on the way.
Bill dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher, vice principal, and ended his career as principal of West High School. He was a steady, compassionate presence to students and colleagues alike, known for his wisdom, patience, and quiet leadership.
He also had a lifelong love of flying and earned his pilot’s license, finding joy in the freedom of the skies. He enjoyed the outdoors — especially fishing, golfing, and spending time in the mountains. He had a great love for reading and writing and spent time crafting stories drawn from both memory and imagination. At home, he was known for his pulled pork BBQ, a family favorite that became tradition.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Bill lived a life of service and testimony. Though he was unable to serve a mission in his youth, he later served two missions — one with Karen to the Tongan community in Salt Lake City and another encouraging youth to develop a love of reading. His quiet faith and Christlike service touched many lives.
Bill faced his final illness with courage, supported by the compassionate care of Dr. Tashi and his team at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. His family is deeply grateful for their support and dedication over the years.
He is survived by his children Janet Boston-Rodgers, Kathryn (Glenn) Peterson, Laura (Gregg) Lowry, and William Boston; fifteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; his sisters Barbra Willden, and Rosie (John Ray) Pollard; brothers John (Sue) Boston, and Bob (Brenda) Boston, and brother-in-law Bobby O’Bryant.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen; his parents, Leroy and Christine Boston; and his sister, Jean O’Bryant.
Bill often said he looked forward to dancing with Karen again. We take comfort in knowing that on the other side of the veil, he was reunited with her, his parents, and his sister — and that their joyful reunion began with that long-awaited dance.
Funeral service will be held Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 11:00 am at the River 3rd Ward, 1540 West 10400 South, South Jordan, Utah. Viewings will be held at the same location, the night prior, Monday, June 9, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm and prior to the funeral, Tuesday, June 10, from 10:00 – 10:45 am. Following the services, interment will take place at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, Utah.
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