Frances Rae Durham

On December 4th, 2023, our cherished mother, Frances Rae Durham, passed away surrounded by her loving family in her son’s home in South Jordan, Utah. Born on December 10th, 1940, in Ogden, Utah, to Berniece Vaughn and Leo Fehrenbacker. Our mother pursued her passion gaining a degree in Education.

Our mother’s heart was not only dedicated to education but also deeply intertwined with her unwavering faith in the Lord. Her journey in education was more than a career; it was a calling she embraced wholeheartedly. In 1966, she sealed a lifetime of love and companionship to the love of her life Karl Ray Durham. Their 50-year marriage was filled with devotion, laughter, and countless cherished memories, continuing even after Dad's passing in 2017.

Left behind to carry her beautiful legacy are the five of us and our spouses: Lynette Durham, Daryl (Diane) Durham, Nita (Jake) Carlisle, Joanne (Mike) Slater, and Karleen Keefer, Stepchildren David Davis and Danette Hockins. She is survived by her sister, Jean Herbert, and brother Doug (Kathy) Fehrenbacker, Jane Fehrenbacker, Connie (Les) Maude, and John (Linda) Durham. She leaves a lasting impact on 18 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Mom's life was a symphony of love, faith, and creativity. Her dedication to the Lord was evident in her humble service within the Church of Latter-day Saints, where she found joy and purpose. She was not just an artist, musician, and teacher; she was a vessel of inspiration. Mom's artistry painted our lives with vibrant colors, her music echoed through the corridors of our home, and her teaching illuminated young minds.

Our childhood home was a haven where family, friends, and laughter flourished. Mom filled our home with warmth, delicious aromas, and the harmonious notes of her favorite hymns. Her smile, like a comforting melody, brought solace to all fortunate enough to be in her presence.

As we say goodbye and celebrate the life of this remarkable woman, we hold tight to the countless memories and lessons she bestowed upon us. Mom's love for the Lord, her passion for music and art, and her boundless love for family and friends will forever be etched in our hearts.
In the tapestry of our lives, Mom's thread is woven with warmth, kindness, and an everlasting love that will endure for generations to come. Until we meet again, we carry her light with us, grateful for every moment shared and every lesson learned. Rest in eternal peace, Mom; you will be dearly missed.

A funeral service will be on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 11:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 4881 West Cindy Lane, South Jordan, UT 84009. A viewing will be one hour prior. Those who are unable to attend may livestream by clicking the “Watch Service” button at the top of this page. 

If you wish to send flowers, they can be sent to Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 south 900 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84106 by 4:00 pm Friday, December 8, or to the church on Saturday, December 9 between 8-10 am.

A graveside service will be on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Turlock Memorial Park, 575 North Soderquist Road, Turlock, California 95380.