Valda Dez Massey passed away Saturday, September 22nd, 2012 at his home in Vernal, Utah.

Valda was born September 28th, 1928 to George O. and Elizabeth Maude Orgill Massey in Jensen, Utah.

Valda served a two year LDS Southwest Indian mission in New Mexico and Arizona.

He married Donna Moon on June 4th, 1952 in the Salt Lake Temple. He was drafted in the Korean War soon after they were married. He served 2 years in Fort Ord, California and earned the rank of First Sergeant.

Valda and Donna were the devoted parents of 8 children, 33 grandchildren and 52 great-grandchildren. He was an active and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many stake and ward callings and served a second full-time mission with his loving wife to the Philippines.

Valda had a positive influence on the many students he taught and counseled in the public school system over a period of 34 years. He loved spending time with his family and serving others. He loved painting, gardening, farming, cooking and the outdoors. He especially enjoyed his Wednesday painting friends. He also loved sharing produce from his garden and taking food to family and friends.

Valda was preceded in death by his wife Donna Moon, his parents, his brothers: Ira, Julian, George, Ferrel; Sisters: Evelyn McNaughton, Elva Stewart, Arthella Pearson, and Illela McKinlay; his grandson Brock, and great-grandson Ashton. He is survived by his children: Rahnena (Keith) Caldwell; Diedra Dawn Massey; Dezradee Franks, Midvale; Laerydin "Larry"; Flayne "Chinaman" (Lana); Shon "Blondie" (Tamra); Monea (Jeff) Mathews; Rakeyl (Doug) Gilley, Roosevelt. He is also survived by his siblings Golda Carroll and Floyd (Geneva) Massey.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 28th, at 10:00 a.m. in the Glines Stake Center at 78 So. 2000 W. on Aggie Blvd. A viewing will be held Thursday evening, September 27th, from 6-8 p.m. at the Ashley Valley Funeral Home at 410 No. 800 W. and from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the chapel prior to services on Friday.

Interment will be in the Vernal Memorial Park with military honors provided by the Utah National Guard and American Legion Post 124 and 11.

Online condolences may be shared at www.AshleyValleyFuneralHome.com