Thurman Ross Johnson

Thurman Ross Johnson passed away on October 4, 2026, at the age of 82.

Ross was born on January 1, 1944, to Lile and Mary Catherine. He married Alison Moody on June 27, 1969, in the Manti Utah Temple, beginning a lifetime of love and family together.

Ross had a remarkable talent for athletics, particularly track and field. He attended Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho, on a track scholarship, where he competed in high hurdles. After his first year, he was called to serve in the North Central States Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

His missionary service took him to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he spent a year serving in an area that extended as far north as Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. He also served in Fargo, North Dakota; South Dakota; Cumberland, Wisconsin; and other parts of Minnesota.

Following his mission, Ross returned to Ricks College for another year. In 1967, he received a scholarship to run track at Weber State College. His exceptional ability in the high hurdles earned him a school record, and he was named Weber State’s Track Athlete of the Year.

In October 1967, Ross was drafted into the United States Army. He attended seven weeks of basic training at Fort Lewis, Washington, followed by Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Arlington Hall Station in Arlington, Virginia, where he trained in Special Forces.

Initially ordered to Vietnam, his assignment was later changed to Ethiopia. Ross spent 11 months stationed in Asmara, Ethiopia, Africa. Following the passing of his father, he was granted a hardship release and received an honorable discharge from the United States Army.

Ross continued his life of service when he joined the Millard County Sheriff’s Office in March 1972. After 33 years of dedicated service, he retired in June 2008. His decades of commitment reflected his strong sense of duty, dedication to his community, and willingness to serve and protect those around him. His years with the Sheriff’s Office became another meaningful chapter in a life devoted to serving others.

Ross was also a skilled pilot, a talent he put to use during his years with the Sheriff’s Office. He flew numerous missions transporting prisoners and piloting the Sheriff to destinations throughout the region. His ability to serve his community both on the ground and in the air became another unique and meaningful part of his career.

His years with the Sheriff’s Office were a testament to a life devoted to service, hard work, and dedication to the people of Millard County.

Ross leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, athletic achievement, and family.

He is survived by his wife, Alison Moody Johnson; his children, Cynthia (Darrin) Rhodes, Shelley Duffy, Kimberly (Coby) Carling, Michael Johnson, and Megan (Todd) Davies; 13 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Lile and Mary Catherine and his siblings, Clo, Tillman, and Connie.

Ross’s life was one marked by unwavering commitment to his faith, his country, his community, and, above all, the people he loved. From his missionary service and time in the United States Army to his 33 years serving Millard County, Ross leaves behind a lifetime of dedication and a legacy that will live on through the generations of family he leaves behind.

Forever loved, always remembered.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Delta Home Care, IHC Home Health and Hospice, Fillmore Community Hospital, and Millard County Care and Rehab for the compassionate care, kindness, and support shown to Ross and his family. Your dedication and tenderness during this time will forever be appreciated.

Funeral services will be held Monday, October 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the Holden Ward Chapel. Viewings will be held Sunday, October 11, 2026 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. and Monday from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. prior to services, both held at the church. Interment in the Holden Town Cemetery.  

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