Photo courtesy of Broomhead Funeral Home - Riverton
Aug 27, 1936 - Mar 7, 2026
Dear Loren and family,
I am so sorry that I am unable to be with you for Carolyn's funeral today. My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you. Loren, I love you both so much, and cherish the friendship and experiences we've shared for over 50 years. Thank you. May you feel the Lord's comforting love during this very special time. Carolyn was always a true kind friend and example to me.
Marilee Cooke
March 13, 2026 | Friend
What a wonderful woman! I knew Carolyn best during the last few years, so it is interesting to hear about the early parts of her life. I visited with her in her home and it was always warm and inviting. Carolyn was positive and delightful to talk with. I watched her sweet family offer constant support and love - starting with her loving and dedicated husband Loren. They had such a fun, vibrant life together. Those relationships will continue. What a blessing she is to that family!
Sue Nielsen
March 10, 2026 | Sandy, UT | Friend
Carolyn Mabel Shelton Beckstead passed away peacefully of natural causes at her home on March 7, 2026. She was born on August 27, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Joseph Harry Shelton and Caroline Mabel Fullmer Shelton.
Carolyn attended Brigham Young University and remained an enthusiastic fan throughout her life, proudly cheering on the Cougars. On May 24, 1955, she married Loren Ray Beckstead in the Salt Lake Temple. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and hard work and were blessed with four children: Karen (David) Egan, Jackie Fuahala, Shauna Beckstead, and Steven (Kirstin) Beckstead.
She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings, including Primary, Relief Society, and Young Women’s President. She found great joy in serving others and strengthening relationships within her ward and community. Those who knew Carolyn remember her quiet strength, steady faith, and genuine kindness.
She took pride in her home and garden, especially caring for her beautiful rose bushes. Inside her home, she was known as a meticulous housekeeper and an excellent cook who loved creating warm, welcoming spaces for family and friends. Her favorite holiday was Christmas, which she celebrated with great enthusiasm each year. Her home was decorated with festive lights, ornaments, and carefully chosen gifts for every family member, reflecting her love of family and cherished traditions.
She enjoyed golfing, fishing at Fish Lake, and spending time at the family cabin with those she loved. Carolyn also loved driving her sports cars, especially her Buick Riviera, Corvette and Camaro. She enjoyed quilting, crafts, shopping, and creating beautiful things with her hands. She took particular delight in collecting dolls and Christmas ornaments.
She was the co-owner of E & L Mfg. and worked as a Nutrition Manager for the Jordan School District, where she was known for her dedication and care for the students and staff she served. Carolyn is survived by her husband of 71 years; her four children; eight grandchildren; and sixteen great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her great joy. She was preceded in death by her son Bryan, parents; her brother, Robert; and her sister, Donna.
Carolyn’s life was a beautiful example of faith, devotion, and love. While her passing leaves a deep void in our hearts, we take comfort in the knowledge of eternal families and the promise that we will see her again. Her love will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and in the traditions she created for generations to come.
The family expresses their heartfelt thanks to the medical staff, neighbors, and ward members for their love, care, and service during her final days.
A viewing will be held at 11:30 a.m., followed by funeral services at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Broomhead Funeral Home, 12600 South 2200 West, Riverton, Utah 84065. Interment will follow at South Jordan Memorial Park Cemetery, 10630 S 1055 W, South Jordan, Utah.
Service will be streamed via YouTube: https://youtube.com/watch?v=kiUFLRE6kIM
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