Rayford N. Benally

Rayford N. Benally, son of Leona Benally and Terry N. Benally Sr., was born February 22, 1991, in Price, Utah, into the Kinłichíí'nii (Red House People Clan), born for Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). His cheii is Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan); nálí is Tł’ááshchí’í (Red Bottom People). He passed away on April 22, 2026 in Magna, Utah.

At a young age, the Benally family moved from Price, Utah, to Salt Lake City, Utah. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and sealed to his family for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple.

Rayford was known for his kind and giving heart from a very young age. As a little boy, he would often stop on his walk home from school or the park to pick beautiful flowers for his mom, a gesture he continued into adulthood. Growing up with his brothers, he loved wrestling and spent countless nights convincing their parents to purchase WrestleMania on pay-per-view so they could gather together and enjoy matches at home.

He had a natural gift for making people laugh. One of his favorite childhood antics was putting on his dad’s oversized shorts, pulling them up over his knees, creating an illusion of missing legs. Bringing joy and laughter to everyone around him.

Rayford was a devoted fan of the San Francisco 49ers and looked forward to football season every year. He enjoyed playing basketball at the park with friends and family, drawing, listening to music, and reading the Bible.

He loved animals deeply, especially the neighbor’s dog, who seemed to adore him just as much, likely thanks to the many treats Rayford would generously share. He cherished simple traditions, like his weekly take-and-bake pizza nights piled high with his favorite toppings, and he always had a special place in his heart for his mom’s spaghetti.

Above all, Rayford had an incredibly selfless and loving spirit. Anyone who knew him knew he would give the shirt off his back or share his last meal with someone in need. His kindness, generosity, and love touched everyone he met.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him.

He is survived by his loving mother, Leona Benally (Higinio Garcia); nálí Mary Benally, his adopted daughter, Kimberly Godinez; and his son, Tony N. Benally. He is also survived by his siblings: Taisha Benally (Joshua Jacobs), Terrell Benally (Leslie Vasquez), Terry Benally (Mary Benally), Tyson Benally, Shawn Benally (Crystal Benally), Cory Benally, Jermaine Sheldon Benally, and Colten Craig Benally. He leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews: Mariah Leonard, Leo Leonard IV, Quinlynn Benally, Nikky Godinez, Adalynn Benally, Kristynn Godinez, Olive Benally, and Benson Benally, along with numerous cousins whom he lovingly referred to as his brothers and sisters.

He was preceded in death by his father, Terry N. Benally Sr.; his grandparents, Leonard Begay Sr., Mary H. Begay, and Ray N. Benally Sr.; and his aunt Leanna Cosme.

Services will be held on May 1, 2026, at the chapel on 6270 W. 7000 S., West Jordan, Utah

Viewing - 9:00 - 10:30 am

Funeral - 10:45 am - 12:00 pm

Interment at the West Jordan Cemetery. 7925 S. 1300 W., West Jordan, Utah

Graveside Service - 12:30 - 1:00 pm