Jerry D Durrant

Jerry Durrant, born April 8, 1942, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2024, surrounded by his family. Jerry was an amazing individual; he was a loving husband, father, and the greatest Grandpa his grandkids could ask for. Throughout his amazing life, Jerry spent every day working on making life better for those around him. Jerry was an artist, a teacher, a father, and a husband. He devoted himself to teaching, both professionally and informally; there was never a time when he didn’t find a way to help us learn and grow. His impact on those who knew him was tremendous. He loved a good practical joke and spent days planning even the simplest prank so it went over perfectly. He loved teasing his grand-daughters with snails and sardines, as well as duct taping their presents to ensure it took them hours to open. He always had a sly smile and a warm welcome for anyone he encountered. When he wasn’t teaching or teasing his grand-daughters, he spent his days golfing, fishing, and completing amazing pieces of art. He enjoyed working in all mediums of art, but particularly loved watercolors and had an amazing talent for them. Jerry won many awards and accolades throughout his life, but always enjoyed the process and teaching more than the recognition. He enjoyed teaching art at all levels, but particularly enjoyed teaching young children who were never afraid to make big bold strokes with bright colors. Jerry was never afraid to make a mistake, enjoying the journey of figuring out the way and what he could do the next time. He was an excellent golfer who rarely missed a fairway or putt. His love of life came out in everything he did, and he spent every minute making sure his family was taken care of and living an amazing life.

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Jerry was born in Ogden, Utah to Leland and Margaret Celeste Durrant. He spent his childhood in Morgan, Utah where he grew up farming, fishing, hunting, and playing every sport he could. Jerry earned his Bachelor of Arts from Weber College and his Master of Arts Degree from Westminster College. Jerry taught throughout the Salt Lake Valley as well as in California. You couldn’t go anywhere without a student coming up to say Hi. He routinely helped open new schools and designed many mascots and color schemes for them. Jerry was the youngest of 5 children, who all preceded him in death. Jerry is survived by his loving wife Karen, son James, daughter-in-law Lyse’ and his three granddaughters, Madie, Taylor and Abbie. His family meant everything to him, and his granddaughters were his life and joy.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Jerry on March 9th at 2:00 PM at the Community of Grace Presbyterian Church, Sandy, Utah. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local school or community arts program.