Charles Southard

With heavy hearts and fond memories, we honor the life of Charles Erastus Southard, affectionately known as Blue, born on August 10, 1949, in Denver, CO, and passed away on January 27, 2026. Charles was a compassionate soul, generously giving his time and energy to his loved ones and community. His dedication to his family, work, and faith was evident in every aspect of his life. A resilient spirit, Charles faced life's challenges with grace and determination, his deep-rooted faith guiding him through.

Charles was a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving missions in the Jupiter Tequesta FL region and later on in life, served a service mission with his wife at the LDS Employment Services Office, as well as multiple different callings, with his favorite being called to work at the Provo City Center Temple. Charles and Patricia were sealed on February 11, 1978, in the St. George, UT LDS Temple. His love for his faith was as steadfast as his love for his family. Charles earned Bachelors Degrees in History and Hotel Management, which led him to a fulfilling career in the hospitality industry. He was a lifelong learner, having traveled to 22 different countries with a study abroad program. Despite his many accomplishments, Charles always placed family above all else. He was a devoted husband to Patricia, a loving father to Jory, James, and Kristy, and an adoring grandfather and great-grandfather. His love for them was boundless, as was his loyalty. Charles was known for his knack for planning special date nights with Patricia and never missing his children's and grandchildren's games and events.

Charles is survived by his wife, Patricia Southard, his children, Jory (Hillary) and James (Samantha) Southard, and Kristy (Larry Warner) Morris. Charles also leaves behind his sister Ann Beard, brother Jeff Bahnsen, and sister Karen Ike. He is also survived by his 10 grandkids and 2 great-grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Cornelia Southard.

As we remember Charles, we are reminded of a verse from the Book of Mormon, Alma 7:23, "And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need of, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive."

May we honor Charles' memory by living as he did, with compassion, generosity, dedication, and resilience.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 6, 2026 at the Kolob 4th Ward Chapel, 2557 South Dalton Drive, Springville, Utah. The family will receive friends from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services. Interment will follow immediately after services at the Springville Evergreen Cemetery. Please share your memories and upload photos of Charles to his memorial page. Condolences may be extended at www.bergmortuary.com.