Richard Paxman Child

Richard Paxman Child, age 65, left this earthly existence due to a massive pulmonary embolism caused by COVID-19 on the morning of Monday, September 20, 2021. He was received and welcomed into our Savior’s arms and by many loved ones who have passed on before.

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Rick was born in Salt Lake City, UT on July 24, 1956, to Stanley Roberts Child and Doressa Paxman Child. He was the youngest of five children and was often referred to as “Little Ricky.” He was a boy full of curiosity and mischief. In typical youngest brother fashion, he was frequently found teasing his older sisters. He was loved and well cared for by his sisters and looked up to his oldest brother as a great example. He had a happy childhood, and their home was a welcoming place where many gathered throughout the years.

Rick grew up in Salt Lake City and enjoyed snow skiing in the winters and spending summer days water skiing on the family boat. He graduated from Highland High School with honors in 1974. He involved himself in various activities including baseball, cheerleading, theater and choir. After high school he served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Auckland, New Zealand. He served faithfully and grew to love the people and the Maori culture. He attended Brigham Young University graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Finance. It was there that he met his beloved wife, Sandra Luymes. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on September 22, 1979. Her vibrant and vivacious personality complemented his steady and easy-going nature. She was the joy and love of his life.

Rick resided in the Salt Lake Valley with his wife and three daughters, whom he cherished. His patient and sensitive spirit made him the perfect girl dad. He took pride in his family and found great joy in his children and grandchildren. Rick had a strong testimony and love for his Savior. He devoted years of service in multiple church callings, and even in his career, where he played a critical role in managing the global IT infrastructure of the accounting department for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His strong organizational skills and attention to detail were valuable in his profession as well as in the many years he served in Bishoprics and Stake Presidencies. Due to his intelligence and wisdom, people both professionally and personally, looked to him for his knowledge and advice.

Rick fostered a love of music and had a beautiful tenor voice. He performed in many choirs, school musicals, stake roadshows and other performances. Music spoke to his soul, a trait which he instilled in and shared with his three daughters.

Though he was quiet and humble, he always found a way to laugh and lift the spirits of those around him. He had a sharp wit and goofy sense of humor that brought joy to everyone who was in his presence. He was the master of the dad joke before the world even knew it was a thing. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His light and kindness will be sorely missed in this world.

He is survived by his wife, Sandi; daughters: Lindy Child, Michelle Caton (Bart), and Kayley Miller (Steve); his eight grandchildren; his brother Brent Child (LaRae) and his sister Becky Nielsen (David). He is preceded in death by his parents, Stan and Doressa Child; his sisters, Cindy Larsen and Susan Hansen; Mother-in-law, Joanne and most recently his Father-in-law, John Luymes, who also tragically passed from Covid just one week prior.

Due to the circumstances, the family has chosen to hold a small, private graveside service. In lieu of flowers, please do a random act of kindness in Rick’s honor and do your part to stem the spread of Covid by getting vaccinated and wearing a mask when appropriate.