Brandon McKell Thayne

Brandon McKell Thayne was born on January 1, 1973, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Gary and Kathie Thayne. From the very beginning, Brandon came out running full speed and gave his parents a whirlwind of a life. As the oldest sibling, he lovingly — and relentlessly — tormented his two younger sisters from the moment they arrived, a role he embraced with enthusiasm and humor.

Brandon earned his Eagle Scout Award and graduated from Alta High School, where he played football and made lots of lifetime friends. Shortly after graduation, he moved to St. George, Utah, and attended Dixie College. After realizing that jet skiing wasn’t an actual degree, Brandon found his true calling in construction. He became a skilled contractor specializing in custom homes. With a keen eye for detail and a love for working outdoors, Brandon took immense pride in his craftsmanship, building beautiful homes that reflected his talent and dedication.

Brandon had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found riding dirt bikes, jet skiing, boating, or hanging out in the Dimple Dell horse park in Sandy, Utah adjacent to his home where he grew up. He had a lifelong passion for anything with a motor — from Big Wheels and three-wheelers in his younger years to dirt bikes later in life. He found true freedom on the trails and loved vacationing around the world. Brandon also loved watching motocross and supercross and excelled in water sports, especially wakeboarding and sky skiing.

Brandon was blessed with four beautiful children — Kezlyn, Kyra, Deagen, and Silas — who were the pride and joy of his life. He also had a special place in his heart for dogs, especially his French bulldogs, whom he loved like family. They were his constant companions and brought him comfort, joy, and unwavering loyalty.

Brandon had a larger-than-life personality and a great sense of humor. He had a unique way of bringing people together, and his presence filled any room he entered. His laughter and energy will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

In 2012, Brandon was diagnosed with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, a rare lung disease that dramatically altered the course of his life. After a long and valiant fight, he lost his courageous battle and passed away peacefully with a strong testimony of the hereafter on January 16, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Brandon’s legacy lives on through his children, his family, and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered for his strength, his laughter, and his adventurous spirit.

Brandon is survived by his parents, Gary and Kathie Thayne; his sisters, Melissa (Mike) Dalley and Brittany (Dustin) Dell; his children, Kezlyn (Max) Belcher, Kyra (Payton) Richards, Deagen Thayne, and Silas Thayne; his grandsons, Stetson and Truett Belcher; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at the Stone Cliff Clubhouse, located at 2197 Cobalt Drive in St. George, Utah, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Short remarks will be shared at noon, followed by a light luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, those who knew Brandon are invited to share memories and upload photos to his memorial page. Each story and picture will serve as a lasting testament to Brandon’s life and the love he shared with us all.