C. Kelly Pearce

1939 - 2025

In Loving Memory of C. Kelly Pearce

C. Kelly Pearce, born September 11, 1939, in Paris, Idaho, passed away leaving behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love. The son of Clifford Hardy Pearce and Pearl Wyona Scheidegger, Kelly graduated from Marsh Valley High School in 1957. That year, Kelly joined the United States Army. He attended Officer Candidate School at Fort Ord and served with distinction in Korea, rising to the rank of Captain.

Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, Kelly returned to Pocatello, Idaho. It was there that he met and fell in love with LaVonne Critchley Later. The couple married on March 22, 1967, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with love and shared purpose. They raised two sons, Scott and John David.

Kelly's career was marked by an unwavering commitment to public service. He served as a Probate Judge in the Sixth Judicial District of Idaho, Director of the Lava Hot Springs Foundation, and an aide to Idaho Governor John V. Evans. He rose to the position of Director of Law Enforcement for the State of Idaho and later, Director of the Division of Building and Public Safety. His expertise and leadership were also recognized by Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter, under whose administration Kelly served in the cabinet.

In addition to his public service, Kelly enjoyed a successful career at New York Life, where he worked for 17 years, culminating in his role as the Managing Partner of the Idaho General Office.

Kelly was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a faith he converted to and remained steadfastly devoted until his death. His testimony of the Savior's love, the Book of Mormon, and the restoration of the Gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith was profound. Kelly served in numerous leadership roles within the Church, including as Bishop, counselor in a Stake Presidency, and Executive Secretary to the Idaho Area Presidency. But he found the greatest joy in mentoring and teaching the youth, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.

Known for his warm personality, Kelly loved people, and people loved him in return. He made friends easily, enjoyed storytelling, and valued the occasional moment to listen.

His passion for Christmas decorating was legendary, and he was known far and wide for his extravagant displays that brought joy to all who experienced them. While residing in Bay Hill Springs subdivision in Boise, he often won awards for his creative and festive decorations. After retiring to St. George, Utah, Kelly completely revised his decorations, opting for a "Dickens' Christmas" theme. His home routinely became a must-see destination on the St. George Christmas Lights Spectacular, captivating the hearts of many. This was made all the more remarkable by the fact he lost his eyesight in 1995.

Just four short weeks ago, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, LaVonne. Having been his eyes for the past 30 years, he couldn't go on without her. He is survived by his sons Scott F. Later (Susan) and John David Lafayette Pearce (Alison) and grandchildren Kelsi Patton (Jeff), Lexi Schneider (Collin), Reagan, JD and Harrison Pearce, and 2.5 great-grandkids. He was preceded in death by his wife LaVonne and parents Clifford Hardy Pearce and Pearl Wyona Scheidegger Pearce.

The funeral will be held at the Lava Hot Springs Chapel on April 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with a viewing at 10:00 a.m. Kelly will be interred in the Lava Hot Springs Cemetery. Please visit mcarthurfuneralservices.com for full obituary and to leave messages.