Philip Coy Wightman

1937 - 2025

Philip Coy Wightman, 88, of Rexburg, Idaho, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2025, at The Homestead Senior Living Center, under the loving care of The Homestead Home Health and Hospice team.

Philip was born on January 19, 1937, in Provo, Utah, to William DeMar Wightman and Thelma Elmira Barnson Wightman. He spent his childhood in Provo and graduated from Provo High School in 1955. Afterward, he attended Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master's in Education.

On June 12, 1959, Philip married the girl around the corner, Patsy LoAnn Wright, in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple. Together, they raised a family of six children-five sons and one daughter. The family initially lived in Rupert, Idaho, before moving to Rexburg in 1968. Philip dedicated 36 years of his life to teaching and guiding young people as a seminary teacher and principal in Rupert, and later as a professor and director of the Religion/Family Life division at Ricks College (now BYU-I).

Philip was a man of deep faith and devotion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a mission to the Great Lakes Mission after high school and held many significant callings throughout his life, including Bishop, Stake President, President of the England Manchester Mission, and President of the Rexburg Idaho Temple.

Outside of his church service and professional life, Philip was passionate about woodworking and gardening, hobbies that he enjoyed in his spare time. However, his most cherished moments were those spent with his family, particularly at the family cabin, which he built with the help of his children.

Philip's toothy smile, unwavering positivity, and loving nature touched the lives of many. He was known for teaching by example, showing kindness, and always making others feel valued. His influence will be missed by those who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Patsy Wightman of Rexburg, Idaho; his daughter, Jodi (Trent) Siddoway of Rexburg; and his sons: Todd (Janeen) Wightman of Idaho Falls, Dick Brian Wightman of Los Angeles, Greg (Jaci) Wightman of West Haven, Utah, Chris (Desi) Wightman of Herriman, Utah, and Mark (Laura) Wightman of Holladay, Utah. Philip is also survived by 24 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Judy Johnson and Marilyn Webb; and his brother, Robert Wightman, who died ten days before Philip was born.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Burial was at the Burton Cemetery. Condolences may be sent online at www.coltrinmortuary.com.