Bill Loya
August 31, 1946 - September 1, 2015
William David Loya, beloved husband and arbiter of style, passed away at his home September 1, 2015. He was born to Bill and Jeanne Loya August 31, 1946 in Salt Lake City.
He married Sharon Morrell Loya over 45 years ago, who was his partner in life and business. His long career in the fashion industry started at the venerable Adrien ‘n Emilie in the 1960's, and culminated with his eponymous boutique BILL LOYA in Salt Lake City. He had a loyal following for decades of women customers and friends who trusted his incredible eye and innate good taste. Bill was an innovator in the business, and brought major fashion designers to Utah for special events at his store, including Todd Oldham and Isaac Mizrahi. For its excellence in fashion and merchandising, BILL LOYA was recognized by Harpers Bazaar twice as one of The Top 100 Specialty Stores in the country. That honor included trips to Milan for Fashion Week.
He had an immense and unwavering belief in the Greek Orthodox faith, which gave him the strength to make his very difficult cancer journey. Bill was a devoted member of the Prophet Elias and Holy Trinity Choirs for over 55 years and supported many Church philanthropic organizations.
He loved his dogs – the late, great Lucy Loya, and the beautiful Anna Sophia. And he was devoted to his wife, Sharon. Through the great times and the difficult challenges, they were two halves that made one whole. He will be painfully missed.
Bill adored his friends and family who will remember his favorite quip, "when you think of who loves you, think of Bill Loya."
He is preceded in death by his parents Bill and Jeanne; and in-laws Alzo and Edith Morrell.
We are eternally grateful to all those who were there for us during his last days and hours, especially Cherie Gleed.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, September 8th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM with a Trisaigon prayer service beginning at 7:00 PM at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 279 South 300 West, Salt Lake City. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, September 9th at 11:30 AM at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Interment to follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 1342 East 500 South, Salt Lake City.
In lieu of flowers please consider contributions to Community Nursing Service/Hospice.
In Loving Memory
Dear Sharon, It's been a while since I've seen you two and I am so sincerely sorry for your loss. The two of you were always seen as one. He will be missed indeed. He was "The Icon" of Salt Lake City. I am only one of so many who are thinking of you. Take care, Laurie Metcalf
Laurie Metcalf
Salt Lake City, Ut
The two of you brought "class" to the community. Our sincere condolences at this difficult time. His memory will be eternal. Sincerely, Denise Vilven
Denise Vilven
Holladay, Ut
Sharon, thinking of at your time of loss. You are in our prayers. Love Nancy & Family
Nancy Davis
North Salt Lake, Ut
Sharon, It was always so exciting to see you and Bill in your fancy cars and exquisite style pulling up to Aunt Ede's house when I was a little girl. Bill was a favorite of mine for as long as I can remember. I love you two so much and I'm so sorry for this loss. I hope you are doing ok. I love and miss you very much. My prayers and condolences ard with you in this tragic time. Love you so much.
Rachelle Busico
Tooele, Ut
Dearest Sharon, We were so saddened to hear about the passing of your wonderful husband, Bill. We will forever hold memories of him fondly. Bill Loya will always be one in a million and I am honored that our paths crossed in this lifetime. All love and healing energy sent to you at this time, Anna
Anna Wondolowski Roumpos
Salt Lake City, Ut
Sharon, Chris and I are thinking of you at this time. Bill was always kind and thoughtful. It was a pleasure to have known him. He will be missed. Chris and Irene Petrogeorge
Irene & Chris Petrogeorge
Holladay, Utah, Ut
Dear Sharon, Bill was the most gifted fashion retailer that I ever saw in my many years in retail in SLC. The stores that you and he created could only be compared to a hand-full of stores in NYC. I loved Bill's wit and humor. I enjoyed the brief time spent in his company. Know that I am thinking of you at this difficult time of loss. Sincerely, Michael Stephens
Michael Stephens
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear Sharon, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You and Bill were some of our first friends here in Salt Lake City. Your belief in us and Ballet West meant so very much. I have to say that I still have a hard time absorbing this. Bill was so present and still feels that way to me. His wit, his verve, and his amazing and expert eye were so singular. I can't believe he's gone. I am holding you in my thoughts and prayers. Be well and I hope that we can talk soon, Love, Christopher Renstrom and Adam Sklute
Christopher Renstrom
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear Sharon, I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. I am heartbroken for you and send you my deepest sympathy. Bill made such a difference in so many people's lives and I am grateful to have known him as he helped to change my life. My thoughts and prayers are with you today and in the days to come. Randy Florence
Randy Florence
Hull, Ma
. . .aeternan donaeis domine requiescant in pace . . .in sympathy and our sincere condolences . . .
imperator roi of laurentia
nan, nan