Kevin Lee Johnson, age 73, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Parowan, Utah, on September 4, 2025, with his beloved wife by his side and his cowboy boots on. Born on August 4, 1952, in Prescott, Arizona, Kevin was the son of James Gerald and Cleotha (Coombs) Johnson. A cowboy at heart, he was raised in Mesa, Arizona, and at the age of 15, moved with his family to Parowan after his father promised him a horse. That same year, he met the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Debbie Evans. They were married on January 29, 1972, and later sealed in the St. George Temple on January 27, 1973. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised seven children.
Kevin had a 31-year career with UPS, retiring in 2004. Never one to sit still, he later worked at Southern Utah University for 10 years, drove trucks for Mark Evans Trucking, and spent several summers fighting wildfires. Through all his hard work, his greatest joy came from working with his cows and living the life of a true cowboy. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kevin served faithfully in many callings including in the bishopric and as a High Priest leader. He especially cherished his time serving in the temple for 16 years. One of his most treasured experiences was serving an 18-month mission in Nauvoo, Illinois, with Debbie, where he worked as a teamster. The couple also spent several summers serving as supervisors for the Nauvoo Pageant.
Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, James Gerald and Cleotha; his brother G.B.; sister Tharon; brother-in-law Douglas Evans; and his in-laws, Arthur and Hazel Evans. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Debbie; his seven children: Heather (Dave) Mineer, Ben (Amy) Johnson, Jamie (Joey) Church, Jake (Ammie) Johnson, Stacia (Taylor) Smith, Lindsey (Dan) Camp, and Adam (Kassie) Johnson; 30 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. Kevin will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Parowan 5th Ward. Family and friends are invited to a viewing on Friday, September 12, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., and again on Saturday from 9:30–10:30 a.m. prior to the service, both at the Parowan 5th Ward. Interment will follow at the Parowan Cemetery, under the direction of Cedar Valley Funeral & Cremation, 2086 North Main Street, Cedar City, Utah (435-865-9000). Online condolences may be shared at: www.cedarvalleyfuneral.com