Francis Albert Richins

Francis Albert Richins, loving son, husband, father and uncle died in his home surrounded by family at the age of 94 on February 26, 2022. Francis was born to Rowena Larson Richins and Albert C. Richins in Naples, Utah on December 4, 1927. His family moved to Canada when he was a baby. When he was 12 years old they moved back to Utah and resided in Measer. At the age of 18, Fran joined the army. He served in Japan and the Philippines. He returned home where he met the love of his life, Ruby Bernece Mott. They married on May 28, 1948.,They enjoyed almost 73 years of marriage. Together they raised 4 children. They had a very adventurous life. As a family they went camping, hunting, fishing and just spending time as a family. Fran loved animals and their family had several unique pets such as; coyotes, bobcats, skunks, raccoons and a badger. Fran had many occupations throughout his life, there was never a time he was unemployed. He was a butcher, meat inspector, government trapper, milkman, carpenter and maintenance supervisor for the Uintah School district. Fran loved to farm. He raised sheep and grew hay on the farm. All of his grandchildren have fond memories of helping and playing at grandpa's. Fran was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Fran served in many positions. Fran was a scout leader, ward clerk, counselor in the Bishopric, High Counselor and Bishop. Fran and Bernece loved to serve in the Vernal temple where they worked for years. Fran served in the temple presidency and was a sealer. Fran and Bernece served a mission in Sierra Leone, Africa, he loved the people there and the people loved him. Fran was a very humble man who taught his children and grandchildren through example. Fran is preceded in death by his parents, Rowena and Albert Richins; siblings, Octora Wall, Heber Haws, Mae Mish, Vilettie Cann, Avis Ashby, Freda Caldwell and Velva Harrison; son-in-law, James Smith; and grandson, Nathan Richins. Fran is survived by his wife, Bernece Richins; children, Debra Smith, Lester (Teresa) Richins, Devin (Cindy) Richins and Shawn (Sandra) Richins; 24 grandchildren; 58 great grandchildren; and 4 great great grandchildren. Memorial Services for Fran will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2022, at 11:00 AM at Jensen LDS Chapel. A visitation for family and friends will be held Saturday 9:45-10:45AM at the Church. Services under the direction of the Phillips Ashley Valley Funeral Home.