DOROTHY KIMBALL KEDDINGTON DYER

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DOROTHY DYER Obituary

Dorothy Kimball Keddington Dyer 1915 ~ 2010 Dorothy Clark Kimball Keddington Dyer, 95, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 13, 2010. 95 years ago a sweet, angelic soul was sent to earth. Dorothy was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, February 16th, 1915, to Dan Carlos and Maria (Annie) Clark Kimball, the eighth of nine remarkable children. She was the last survivor of a choice family and the end of an era. Raised in Salt Lake City, she was blessed with a fabulous vocal talent that blossomed when she entered college, beginning a lifelong performing career. Because of this incredible singing ability and a true flare for the dramatic, she was given the lead in the University of Utah romantic musical, "Maytime", and fell eternally in love with her co-lead, Samuel Richard Keddington. They were sealed for time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on June 19th, 1941. She and her husband performed together and were a renowned musical and acting couple. Their duets were a heavenly sound. They were supremely happy together and laughed much. Richard preceded her in death in 1973. In 1982 she met the second, wonderful man in her life, Kenneth B. Dyer. They were married for time in the Jordan River Temple. They spent 22 joyful years together. He passed away in 2004. Over the years, Dorothy performed countless solos for groups and gatherings throughout Utah. She was a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for 37 years and was one of their premier soloists. She performed on the weekly KSL Radio broadcast "Sunday Night on Temple Square." She was one of three women selected as part of the 1947 reenactment of the 1847 pioneer trek. She sang and performed from Nauvoo to Salt Lake City. She sang for dedications at Church history sites and was the female lead in the premier of "Promised Valley" by Crawford Gates. She was well known for soprano leads with Utah Civic Opera Company and as soloist for the Swanee Singers Chorus for 13 years. Dorothy served on the LDS Young Women's General Board for nine years and traveled across the world on assignments. As a hostess at the Church Office Building she charmed visitors with her brilliant smile and gracious manner. She served faithfully in many other church callings and was an active member of Daughters of the Utah Pioneers. Dorothy had degrees in music and elementary education and exerted a powerful, positive influence on the lives of countless students. She taught voice for over 25 years and taught 3rd grade at Beacon Heights Elementary for nine years. She had a special talent for making others happy and sharing with them her effulgent love of life. Christmas was a special time. Her Christmas tree was magical and legendary. The warmth of her home drew the entire family and others to celebrate with her. With all of her talents and accomplishments, she was most proud of her family and her posterity. She is survived by her children, Richard K. (Lynda) Keddington, Robert S. (Ronda) Keddington, Dorothy A. (Fred) Davis, Roger K. (Leslie) Keddington, and her step-children Robert (Christine) Dyer, and Carleen D. Dixon. She rejoiced to have 36 grandchildren and 29 great-grand children. Each one was a gift. Dorothy has been loved and honored, and is revered by her posterity who rejoice in the life she led and her glorious example. She is united again with her beloved Dick, Ken and so many others that she loves. The reunion must be sweet. She has touched countless lives for good with her beautiful songs, vivacious spirit, righteous example, patience, and unfettered love of life. Her family calls her blessed and loves her eternally. Her mantra was to go, seek and learn, "Your IQ demands it." Mother, we love you, miss you and will rejoice when we embrace you again. Viewing Sunday, April 18th at Larkin Sunset Lawn Mortuary, 2350 E. 1300 So. from 6-8 p.m. Funeral Services Monday, April 19th, at 12:00 noon at the Monument Park Stake Center, 1320 South Wasatch Drive with a viewing from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Donations can be made to the LDS Perpetual Education Fund. Online condolences: www.larkinmortuary.com

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Published by Deseret News from Apr. 17 to Apr. 18, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for DOROTHY DYER

7 Entries

Vicki Bennion

April 20, 2010

Dorothy and Fred, If I had know I would've come to your mother's viewing. I didn't read Sat. Obits until yesterday afternoon. (Mon. the 19th). I recognized her right away when I saw her picture, as Dorothy you look just like her. She lived a wonderful life and it's nice to know where she is now, happy and enjoying a reunion with those she loved who passed before her.

Cal & Vicki Bennion

fiona garrison

April 19, 2010

To my family-
Wish I was there . I shall treasure my visit with grandma and the pictures I had taken with her . My heart is with you if not my body.
I miss you all

Lucinda Naegle Hyer

April 19, 2010

One of the reasons I teach is because of the amazing example of Mrs. Keddington. She is one of my fondest memories of Beacon Heights (1976). Thank you for sharing her with us!

Tim Smith

April 19, 2010

Dear Keddington/Dyer Families,
I am so sorry to hear about Dorothy's passing. I was one of the lucky people on the planet who had her for my third grade teacher. To this day, she remains my favorite teacher. I even named my first daughter Dorothy. I remember more about that year of school than any other. She made each student feel special and loved. Even years later when she saw me on occasion, she always smiled and called me "Dimples." I count myself very fortunate to have had her be a small part of my life. How blessed we all are for having known this wonderful, talented and giving angel. Please accept my deepest condolences. My family's thoughts and prayers are with you.

Celia Alston Cutler

April 18, 2010

Dear Keddington/Dyer Families,
When I was a youngster Dorothy went on the treck which commemorated the arrival of the Utah Pioneers. My father, Ray L. Alston was also on the trek. He spoke very highly of Dorothy and her wonderful personality and singing voice. Through the years, when attending the Sons of Utah Pioneers' events, I met Dorothy and she was always very friendly and kind and so considerate of my father. She has touched many lives in her career and was very influentual in all of circles inside the church and in the community. Our family extends sincere sympathy to all of you. May Heavenly Father's comforting spirit be with all of you.

Joann Killpack

April 18, 2010

Want to add a few remarks here for a beautiful and elect lady. I've always admired your Mother Bob and have been priviledged to have heard her beautiful voice. My father always spoke very highly of her and we both enjoyed visiting with her at the Sons of Utah Pioneer luncheons. You have a great legacy. My love to you and your family. Joann Killpack.

James Tueller

April 17, 2010

Dearest Dorothy and your family,

While I grieve for your loss, I couldn't help but smile as I read this loving tribute to your most remarkable mother! I think of her often (and yes, especially at Christmas time) and feel privileged to have known her and the beautiful family she created. What a fabulous lady...and the world will be a little duller without her in it.

My love to you all.

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