St. George, Utah – Dennis Blaylock Bodily passed away peacefully, at home, on March 31, 2025. His wife and eternal companion, Wanda was at his side. Dennis was born November 28, 1936, in Ogden Utah, to Ervin "Bode" and Naoma Bodily. Dennis is preceded in death by his parents and brother Neil. Dennis enjoyed a close relationship with brother Wayne and sister Diane throughout his life. He was raised in North Ogden and the Bay Area of California. Following high school, he entered the Army where his great manual dexterity was recognized, and he was trained as a dental lab technician. While in the Army, his athletic talents were on full display as he played football, volleyball, and boxed for 3rd Army.

Following his military service, Dennis returned to California where he met the love of his life, Wanda Marie Olsen. They have three children: Kurt (Sheryl), Troy (Marcia), Trisa (Doug), eleven grandchildren, and seventeen great grandchildren. He took a personal interest in each of his grandchildren and reveled in their adventures and successes.  He leaves this earth having given his family the unparalleled gift of knowing that he loved each of them

Dennis was a building contractor but frustrated by the time demands of his successful business, he chose to pursue a career path that would allow more time for his family. He returned to college, graduated from San Jose State University, and then moved to Bozeman, Montana where he taught high school Construction, Drafting, Woodworking, and Photography for the next 25 years. He would later call this one of the best decisions he ever made as he and his family thrived in the beautiful mountains of Montana

Dennis was an amazing artisan and was widely recognized for his woodturning and gem cutting skills. He loved to teach and introduced many others to his hobbies. His woodturning skills were recognized by Fine Woodworking magazine and after retirement, he served as a consultant to the woodworking industry. His beautiful gemstones have been acquired by collectors across the United States.

Dennis had a deep faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ. He served in many capacities, including Bishop, in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After retiring to St George, Utah, he and Wanda served in the St George Temple and later as missionaries at the Family History Museum in Salt Lake City. All who knew Dennis, benefitted from his great generosity. He loved to serve and was forever helping those in need.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 West St. George Blvd. St. George, Utah. A visitation will be held Monday, prior to services, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at the Mortuary. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 South Dixie Drive, St. George, Utah.

Live streaming webcast is available by clicking on the broadcast below. Webcast will remain on-line for 90 days.

Dennis Bodily Funeral Service Program