Lyman Platt

Lyman De Platt, age 82, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, at his home in Cedar City, Utah. He was born on June 10, 1943, in Blanding, Utah, to Gordon Platt and Allie Lyman. He spent his early years in Blanding and Salt Lake City and later graduated from Whittier High School in Whittier, California.

Lyman devoted his life to faith, service, learning, and family. He faithfully served in many capacities for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including several missions, with a special focus on ancestral and genealogical work. He also served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, serving in Vietnam in the cities of Tan Son Nhut and Saigon as a ground radio operator.

A lifelong scholar and historian, Lyman earned a Master's degree in library science and a Ph.D. in Latin American History. His professional contributions were extensive and enduring. He authored or contributed to more than 42 books and publications for the Church's FamilySearch Department and directed record preservation efforts in multiple Latin American countries for nearly 20 years, working closely with local church archives and necessary government agencies to preserve and secure access to invaluable historical records. His work preserved countless historical documents and blessed generations to come.

Above all else, Lyman found his greatest joy in his family. He cherished time spent gardening, hiking, writing in his journals, compiling genealogical indexes, and guiding others through historical events and stories. His family and friends knew him as a thoughtful teacher, a devoted husband, and a man of quiet wisdom.

Lyman is survived by his beloved wife, Helen Lorraine Platt, and his children: Juan, Bruce, David, Danny, Julie, Lena, Debbie, Nicolle, Lyman, and Natalia. He is also survived by 47 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Lorrie's children and grandchildren loved him deeply, and to the youngest among them, he was affectionately known as "Grandpa Platt."

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Patrcia Platt Hamblin, sons, Don Carlos Platt, and John Platt.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Westview Ward Chapel (800 S. Laurie Lane, Cedar City, Utah). A viewing will be held prior to the service from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the same location. Interment will take place at the Kanarraville Cemetery under the direction of Southern Utah Mortuary.

I will forever be grateful for the life we shared, the love he gave so freely, and the example of faith, kindness, and devotion he leaves with our family and all who knew him.