Kathleen Smith Larsen

Kathleen “Kathy” Smith Larsen, 71, of Magna, Utah, passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 23, 2026.

Kathy was born on March 26, 1955, to Milton and Frances “Fran” Smith and was the eldest of four children: Dennis, Cherie, and Susie. From an early age, she displayed the strength, determination, and loving spirit that would define her life.

Kathy first married Robert “Bob” Sackett, and together they welcomed two daughters, Chelsea and Heather. Tragically, Bob lost his battle with melanoma, leaving Kathy a widow at the young age of 21. Despite this heartbreaking loss, Kathy faced life's challenges with resilience and grace.

She later married Roger Lynn Skiby, and together they had a son, Neilse Peter Skiby. Though their marriage eventually ended in divorce, Kathy remained devoted to her family and children.

Fate smiled on Kathy one evening when she met Ronald “Ron” Elray Larsen. What began with a dance quickly blossomed into a lifelong love story. The two were married on May 1st, 1999, and built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Through her marriage to Ron, Kathy gained a bonus daughter, Jessica, whom she loved as her own. Kathy and Ron spent countless hours traveling the highways together while Ron worked as a long-haul truck driver, making treasured memories and enjoying the beauty of the many places they visited.

Following the passing of her daughter Heather in 2003, Kathy and Ron lovingly took custody of Heather’s children, Katrina Lynn Sackett and Isaiah Lynn Agbeko. They raised them with unwavering love and devotion, embracing them as their own children.

Throughout her life, Kathy worked in a variety of jobs, but her greatest calling was caring for others, especially children. She served for many years as a crossing guard at Webster Elementary and later spent 15 years working in the daycare program at the Magna Recreation Center. Her kindness, watchful nature, and genuine care touched the lives of countless families.

Kathy was known for her honesty and straightforward nature. She never hesitated to speak her mind, and no one ever had to wonder where they stood with her. More importantly, when Kathy loved someone, she loved them fiercely and wholeheartedly.

Kathy is survived by her devoted husband, Ronald Elray Larsen; her daughter, Chelsea Sackett (Robert); her bonus daughter, Jessica (Skip) Whitman; her grandchildren, Austin Rudd, Robert Winter, Katrina Sackett, David Winter, Tyler Vigil, Isaiah Agbeko, Mason Skiby, Katelynn Skiby, and Angela Skiby. She was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Bennett, Marius, Daxton, Emily, Hazelynn, and Lloyd. In addition, she had many other children and grandchildren and lovingly claimed as her own.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Milton (Cleon) Smith and Fran (Mike) Pettis; her sister, Susie Smith Larson; her first husband, Robert “Bob” Sackett; her daughter, Heather Lynn Sackett; and her son, Neilse Peter Skiby.

A celebration of life will be held the evening of July 17th 2026, at the home of Ron and Kathy Larsen. More details to follow later.

Kathy’s strength, honesty, and boundless love will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.