Gary Little

Gary W. Little passed away on January 26, 2026 in Cedar City, UT, from complications related to COVID 19 and Alzheimer's disease.

Born in Cedar City, Utah, Gary was the youngest of eight children of Thirza Mahala Watson Little and Thomas David Little. Deeply cherished by his older siblings, he grew up surrounded by love, support, and faith. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gary served with unwavering commitment throughout his life.

Gary graduated from Cedar City High School, where he lettered in basketball and developed a lifelong love for sports. After graduation, he began what would become a distinguished 30 year career with the U.S. Steel Iron Mines. He was honored upon retirement for never having taken a single sick day-a remarkable reflection of his dedication, resilience, and strong work ethic.

During the Korean War, Gary enlisted in the United States Air Force alongside several friends from Cedar City and was stationed in Seoul, South Korea. After completing his military service, he returned home and resumed his career with U.S. Steel.

Gary met Carolyn Black while she attended what is now Southern Utah University. They were married in Kanosh, Utah, on July 28, 1956, and later had their marriage solemnized in the St. George Temple in 1976. They were blessed with one daughter, Lisa Little Parsons.

Gifted with his hands and known for his meticulous nature, Gary built the duplex where he and Carolyn began their life together, followed later by the home they would share until his passing. He took immense pride in maintaining an immaculate home and yard-mowing his lawn well into his 90s. A passionate sports fan, Gary frequently attended high school and college football and basketball games, often bringing Lisa along. He loved the mountains and cherished time spent with family cutting wood and enjoying the outdoors.

Gary had a deep sense of responsibility to family. He remained closely connected to his extended relatives, regularly checking in and caring for widowed family members. He lovingly cared for his mother in her later years, bringing her joy and comfort.

After retiring from U.S. Steel, Gary continued working in construction in Las Vegas, concluding his career in 1999. Carolyn joined him there in 1987, and together they purchased a townhome while keeping their Cedar City residence. They traveled frequently between the two homes and, for many years, traveled the world together until the COVID 19 pandemic. In 2016, they sold their Las Vegas home and returned to Cedar City permanently.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Thirza and Thomas Little; sisters Velle (Ermil) Liljenquist, Wanda (Ken) Brown, Thirza (Joe) Robinson, Laura Little, and Marie (John) Hatherell; brothers Dee (Mary Jane) Little and Dixon (Gerry) Little; brothers in law Morgan Young, Russell (Evon) Black, and Lorin Black; and niece Emily Olson; nephews Lorin Little, Jeff Robinson, and Brad Young.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn Black Little; daughter Lisa Little (Troy) Parsons; grandsons Chase (Brigette), Nick (Kat), and Cody (Lindsey); great granddaughters Carter and Dillon; sisters in law Mary (Tom) Olson and Judy Young; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Gary will be remembered for his quiet strength, steadfast devotion, and deep love for his family. His legacy lives on in all who were blessed to know him.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Southern Utah Mortuary, located at 190 N. 300 W., Cedar City, UT. A viewing will be held prior to the services at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at the Cedar City Cemetery, under the direction of Southern Utah Mortuary. Online condolences can be sent at www.mortuary.org.