Gene Ray Halford

Gene Ray Halford completed his life’s journey as a faithful and loving son of Heavenly Father, passing away peacefully on August 1, 2026, at the age of 89.

He was born on August 17, 1936, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Charles William Halford, Jr., and Eva Louise Hayes. Gene married his eternal companion, Reta Mary Capson, on July 7, 1956, in Bountiful, Utah. They were later sealed in the Logan Utah Temple on December 17, 1964. They were married for 67 years. Reta preceded him in death on July 16, 2023.

Gene served in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in many callings, including executive secretary to a bishop, counselor in the bishopric, stake high councilor, and bishop of the Rosedale Ward. He also served as an ordinance worker in the Bountiful Utah Temple and had various teaching assignments throughout the years.

Gene served in the Navy during the Korean War and later worked as a news reporter for KCPX, Channel 4 News in Salt Lake City from 1966 to 1972, covering many major and local stories. He also owned his own film production company.

He loved the outdoors—especially fishing and camping—with Reta, traveling to hundreds of locations in search of the best spots. Gene was also a professional photographer and artist, with a camera always nearby and a darkroom in the family home.

Gene is survived by his daughters, Pamela Adams (Don), Deborah Halford, and Charlene Mangelson (Scott), along with eleven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and brothers Marlin (Judy), Stephen (Pam), and Ernest. He was preceded in death by his wife, Reta; daughter, Carla; his parents; and sister-in-law, Karla.

Funeral services for Gene will be held on Saturday, Aug 8, 2026, at the Bountiful 26th Ward Chapel, 200 N 200 W, Bountiful, Utah. A viewing will be held from 9:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M., with the funeral service following at 10:45 A.M. Interment will be at the Bountiful City Cemetery, 2224 S. 200 W., Bountiful, Utah.

The family would like to thank the Valeo hospice nurses and aids who attended to Gene during his final week of life.