Larry Vaughn Spendlove

Larry Vaughn Spendlove, age 84, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on the morning of March 9, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah, following complications from ALS. Born on November 18, 1941, in Provo, Utah, to Vaughn Denzel and Marjorie Mower Spendlove, Larry graduated from West High School in Salt Lake City in 1960. He earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts in English Literature from Brigham Young University and a Juris Doctor from George Washington University in 1971. From 1961 to 1963, he served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Western States Mission, primarily in Colorado and western Texas.

On February 23, 1967, Larry married Venise Sandra Robison in the Salt Lake Temple. Together they created a home centered on faith, service, and education. For more than thirty years, he served as Assistant City Attorney for Salt Lake City, earning deep respect for his integrity, fairness, and thoughtful approach to public service. Though he stood only 5'4", Larry was known as a giant in character, quietly standing up for others and always seeking to do what was right.

A devoted member of the Church, Larry served in many callings, with one of the most meaningful being bishop of a central-city congregation in Salt Lake City. There he worked with compassion and dignity among those who were struggling, helping to create a sustainable model of assistance that combined financial and emotional support with opportunities for service in church-operated soap and canning facilities. He found great joy in temple service, attending faithfully each week for many years.

Larry cherished his family above all. He looked forward to monthly gatherings with siblings, children, and grandchildren, and he planned many memorable trips with them to Southern California, Mexico, Jackson Hole, Southern Utah, the Pacific Northwest, and countless camping excursions closer to home. His home was always open, especially during holidays, to anyone who might otherwise be alone. He is survived by his loving wife, Venise Spendlove; his children William Spendlove (Steve Wilson), Robert Spendlove (Kristen), and Debbie Pitt (James); numerous grandchildren; and his siblings Joseph (Eileen Gwynn), Annette (Michael Longman, deceased), and Eileen (Rick, deceased). He was preceded in death by his son Vaughn Spendlove, his parents, his sister Corilee Southern, and his brother Steven Spendlove. Larry will be remembered for his kindness, quiet strength, devotion to faith, and deep love for his family.