C. Kelly Pearce

C. Kelly Pearce, born September 11, 1939, in Paris, Idaho, passed away leaving behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love. The son of Clifford Hardy Pearce and Pearl Wyona Scheidegger, Kelly moved to Lava Hot Springs, Idaho at the tender age of two, a place he always cherished as home. Throughout his life, he was a staunch advocate of Lava Hot Springs' beauty and potential, a testament to his enduring connection to the community.

Kelly graduated from Marsh Valley High School in 1957, setting the stage for a life of hard work and commitment. His industrious spirit shone early; at the age of 13, he began his first job and continued to work diligently every day thereafter.

In 1957, Kelly joined the United States Army, demonstrating his dedication to serving his country. He attended Officer Candidate School at Fort Ord and served with distinction in Korea, rising to the rank of Captain. His thirst for knowledge led him to the Army Language School, where he learned Mandarin Chinese.

Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, Kelly returned to Pocatello, Idaho. It was there that he met and fell in love with LaVonne Later. The couple married on March 22, 1967, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with love and shared purpose. They had two sons, Scott and John David.

Kelly's career was marked by an unwavering commitment to public service. He served as a probation officer, Probate Judge in the Sixth Judicial District of Idaho, Director of the Lava Hot Springs Foundation, and an aide to Idaho Governor John V. Evans. He rose to the position of Director of Law Enforcement for the State of Idaho and later, Director of the Division of Building and Public Safety. His expertise and leadership were also recognized by Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter, under whose administration Kelly served in the cabinet. His contributions to the Lava Hot Springs Foundation were particularly significant, reflecting his deep ties to the community he loved.

In addition to his public service, Kelly enjoyed a successful career at New York Life, where he worked for 17 years, culminating in his role as the Managing Partner of the Idaho General Office.

Kelly was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a faith he converted to and remained steadfastly devoted to throughout his life. His testimony of the Savior's love, the Book of Mormon, and the restoration of the Gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith was profound. Kelly served in numerous leadership roles within the Church, including as Bishop of the Lava Hot Springs Ward, counselor in a Stake Presidency, and Executive Secretary to the Idaho Area Presidency. But he found the greatest joy in mentoring and teaching the youth, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.

Known for his warm personality, Kelly loved people, and people loved him in return. He made friends easily, enjoyed storytelling, and valued the occasional moment to listen.

His passion for Christmas decorating was legendary, and he was known far and wide for his legendary and extravagant displays that brought joy to all who experienced them. While residing in Bay Hill Springs subdivision in Boise, he often won awards for his creative and festive decorations. After retiring to St. George, Utah, Kelly completely revised his decorations, opting for a “Dickens’ Christmas” theme. His home routinely became a must-see destination on the St. George Christmas Lights Spectacular, captivating the hearts of many. This was made all the more remarkable by the fact he lost his eyesight in 1995. Still, he could “see” it in his mind, and with the help of friends made it come to life. Each night, he would sit and watch the lights of the cars go by, bringing joy and holiday spirit to all who passed.

Just four short weeks ago, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, LaVonne. Having been his eyes for the past 30 years, he couldn’t go on without her. He is survived by his sons Scott F. Later (Susan) and John David Lafayette Pearce (Alison) and grandchildren Kelsi Patton (Jeff), Lexi Schneider (Collin), Reagan, JD and Harrison Pearce, and 2.5 great-grandkids. He was preceded in death by his wife LaVonne and parents Clifford Hardy Pearce and Pearl Wyona Scheidegger Pearce.

A visitation will be held on April 10, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 7 at the McArthur Funeral Home in St. George. The funeral will be held at the Lava Hot Springs Chapel on April 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with a viewing at 10:00 a.m. Kelly will be interred in the Lava Hot Springs Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Salt Lake City, which provided outstanding care for his grandson.