Richard Millett

Richard Leonard Millett, a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, neighbor, and friend, peacefully returned to his heavenly home on January 29, 2025, at the age of 91.
Born on January 19, 1934, in Mesa, Arizona, Richard was the youngest of six children of William Howard Millett and Lillian Freestone Millett. Growing up on a farm in Mesa instilled in him a love for hard work and service. A standout athlete in high school, Richard excelled in track and field, where he was a formidable sprinter and long jumper, becoming an Arizona state champion and record holder in both low and high hurdles.
Richard put his athletic career on hold after a highly successful first year at Brigham Young University, where he rose to national prominence as a hurdler. He accepted a call to serve as a missionary in Argentina for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, an experience that profoundly shaped his character and life. Upon returning from Argentina, despite a severe knee injury, Richard resumed his track career with perseverance and faith, ultimately setting numerous school and conference records. In 2002, he was inducted into the Mesa City Sports Hall of Fame.
Richard met his lifelong sweetheart, Denna Jean Phelps, on a blind date shortly after returning from his mission. They were married on June 21, 1957, in the Mesa, Arizona temple. Richard and Denna were absolutely devoted to each other during their 63 years of marriage, and he continued that devotion after her death in 2020. Richard's family will long remember his efforts to clear a 30-yard path in the snow, despite a heart condition, for his daily visits to keep flowers on Denna's grave and how he sang "Goodnight, Sweetheart" to her portrait each night. Together, Richard and Denna were blessed with seven children, 26 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.
After graduating from BYU in 1958, Richard began his business career managing a large grocery store in Arizona before moving to Provo in 1967 to run Millett's Market near BYU. Known for his kindness, he served as a father figure to the many college students that worked and shopped at his store, especially those from other countries and cultures who needed a friend or helping hand. He loved involving his children in all aspects of his business, whether unloading trucks, mopping floors, bagging groceries, acting as cashiers or eating excess candy and ice cream inventory. He later purchased a second store in Provo.
Richard was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings throughout his life, including as a Bishop and MTC Branch President. His life's passion, however, was missionary work. He and Denna served together as Mission Leaders of the Florida Ft. Lauderdale Mission, Puerto Rico San Juan Mission, Mexico City Missionary Training Center, and Chile Santiago East Mission. As mission leaders in the Caribbean, Richard and Denna participated in opening many countries to the Church, including the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Haiti, the Bahamas, Virgin Islands, Barbados, and others. They also served in the Utah Provo Spanish-speaking mission.
After their service in the Caribbean, Richard began a 20-year career with the Missionary Department of the Church. He managed the operations of the Missionary Training Center in Provo for many years while also opening and assisting in the operation of new missionary training centers worldwide. He later worked as an In-Field Representative for the Missionary Department until his retirement.
Richard was unrelenting in pursuing his life's passions. If he knew or even suspected that you spoke Spanish, he would strike up a conversation. A loyal BYU Cougar fan, he attended nearly every football and basketball game in person until his health no longer allowed it, always offering keen insights on the officiating. He often served as head timer for BYU track and field meets and regularly attended other athletic events. Richard was an accomplished vocal soloist, loved tending his garden, and harvested more squash and tomatoes than the entire neighborhood could eat. For 40 years-and until the day before his death-he wrote and sent letters of encouragement to thousands of Church missionaries and cherished opportunities to teach young men and women how to share their love of the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Richard's greatest success was his devotion to God, his family, and serving others. He lived a simple, generous life, always bold and courageous in doing what he knew to be right. A friend and helper to all, Richard taught those around him to give freely, love deeply, and serve faithfully. For over 50 years, he lived in the same home where he raised his family, embodying humility and gratitude in all he did.
Richard is survived by his seven children: Zoe (Kevin) Weed, Diane Millett, Richard (Julie) Millett, Tim (Laurie) Millett, Karen (Jeff) Bell, Lisa (Nathan) Fisher, and Randy (Briana) Millett, along with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and siblings: Howard, Lyal, Teddy, Donald, and Ethel Mae Hale.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Edgemont 4th Ward chapel, 4056 Timpview Drive, Provo, UT. The family will receive friends at Nelson Family Mortuary, 4780 N. University Avenue, on Thursday, February 6, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and at the chapel from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services.
Interment will follow at East Lawn Memorial Hills Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at nelsonmortuary.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the General Missionary Fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.