Marvin R. Cartwright

Marvin R. Cartwright, 84, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family.

Marvin was born on January 22, 1942, in Portsmouth, Virginia to Marvin Clyde and Edna Miller Cartwright. He married the love of his life, Patricia Carson on March 5, 1964, and together they shared 62 years of travels, laughter, and the love of countless friends and family. She was his everything — no one could ever come second to Pat. They had two children who they loved and were devoted to - Bret Reed Cartwright, and Christa Cartwright Brown (Aaron M. Brown).

If Husband had a second love beyond Pat, it was cars. He was a regular fixture at car shows and never missed a chance to admire a beautiful machine. He also loved a good book, a good song, a good joke, and a good deal — especially if he could use a coupon. He believed in the small things done right, like spreading butter and jam all the way to the edge of the toast, and making sure the frosting was just so. Or maybe he just had a sweet tooth.

Cartwright was always there for his family - always just a phone call away, always ready to help. He adored them, and he showed them that love every day. His children loved him deeply, returning the love he showed them, knowing he would always be there for them - whether it was diagnosing a "weird sound" their car was making, or taking them on wonderful trips that they'd remember for a lifetime. Their grandchildren also adored him, and will remember him as the one who always made sure they got home from seeing their mom, turning every long drive into an adventure with snacks, drinks, entertainment, and perfectly timed potty breaks (and the occasional threat to "stop this car" and "I will turn this car around"). He was always there, and he always loved them.

Many people remember Marvin as the knowledgeable and gregarious salesman who put them in their very first car at Marvin's Motor Plaza in American Fork. The landmark car dealership was started by his father, and he began working there by his side at the age of 21, helping countless people in the then-small town. He later inherited the business from his father, and continued to work there for decades. Many others remember him as the wise and gregarious real estate agent, a career that spanned another 40 years. Either way, Marv never met a stranger — only people he hadn't talked to yet, taking President Hinckley's advice to heart and saying hello to every single person who crossed his path. He was unfailingly gracious — always quick with a "thank you," even in his darkest hours.

He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where his favorite calling was teaching Gospel Doctrine. He had a deep understanding of the scriptures, and loved teaching and bringing those stories to life. He also loved working at the temple, as well as leading stake and ward choirs, sharing his love of music with all who would listen.

Marv was preceded in death by his parents Marvin Clyde Cartwright and Edna Miller Cartwright; his brother, Curtis; his son, Bret Reed; and his sister, Carolyn (Heinz Hubler).

He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Carson Cartwright; his loving daughter, Christa Cartwright Brown (Aaron Brown); his five grandchildren: Brittney Sanborn, Julius Richard Visser (Sabra Alder), Anthony Mathew Visser, Mitchell Justin Visser (Jen Jenkins) and Gabriel McKenzie-Brown; and twelve great-grandchildren.

No flowers, please.