Randy Stephens Willes

In Loving Memory of Randy Stephens Willes 1943-2024
Randy Stephens Willes, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on February 29, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones near and far. She leaves behind cherished memories and a profound impact on all who knew her.
Born on January 21, 1943, to Rand and Beth Stephens in Salt Lake City, Utah, Randy Lee Stephens was the eldest of four children (Randy, Connie, Trudi & Kelly) raised in the Edgemont area of Provo, Utah. Their family owned and operated Rand's Dry Cleaners and created lasting memories fishing at Strawberry Reservoir, that continued into the next generation.
In September of 1960, Randy met her eternal sweetheart, Gene Willes. They "went steady" throughout attending Orem High School, where she graduated in 1961. She later attended and graduated from Darrell's College of Beauty in 1962 with her dear friends Sharon & Marilyn, while Gene completed high school in 1962.
Randy and Gene were married on April 10, 1963, in Orem, Utah and were later sealed in the West Jordan Temple. They had three children, Mark, Matthew & Mindi and raised them in Taylorsville, Utah. As owners of the Grainery Bakery in SLC, they instilled a strong work ethic in their children. They enjoyed fishing at Strawberry and attending motocross races in which Mark and Matt participated.
Mom was a remarkable woman with a deep love for nature and all its wonders. She found joy in the beauty of colorful flowers, especially tulips, as they symbolized the beauty of life and the hope of renewal. Randy embraced life with resilience and a sense of wonder, always taking her time to "stop and smell the roses".
She had a passion for the great outdoors and found solace in hiking through nature's trails, particularly during the fall. The vibrant colors of the autumn leaves brought her immense joy and served as a reminder of the ever-changing beauty of life.
Above all, Randy cherished her role as "Grandma Willes". Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she created countless cherished memories with them. Grandma and Grandpa Willes went to great lengths to spend quality time with each grandchild and celebrate their many life achievements, no matter the distance. They will forever remember her warm and loving hugs, the exciting hiking adventures they shared, and the delicious treats she lovingly prepared for them. Her scratch pancakes, OHenry's, and chocolate chip cookies were always a delight and brought smiles to their faces.
She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her legacy of love, kindness and appreciation for the simple joys of life will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known her. Randy is survived by her children, Mark (DeAnna) Willes, Matthew Willes and Mindi Willes; her grandchildren, Marko, Michael, Weston, Katie, Josh, Nick, Samantha, Elizabeth, Emilee and nine great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Beth & Rand Stephens, and her loving husband; Gene Robert Willes.
Her viewing will be held from 11-11:45am. A memorial service and luncheon to celebrate her life will be held at 12pm on March 30, 2024, at Stone Gate Wedding & Events (886 West 2600 North) in Pleasant Grove, Utah, at the base of her beloved Mount Timpanogos. Interment will follow in the Spanish Fork Cemetery (420 S 400 E, Spanish Fork, Utah).
The family would like to express their gratitude to The Abbington in St. George, Utah and Renew Hospice for their dedicated care.
Condolences, memories, photos and RSVP's can be shared here: https://everloved.com/life-of/randy-willes/ (https://everloved.com/life-of/randy-willes/)