John Elliot Rich, age 83, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2026, at Legacy Village, surrounded by the care and compassion of those who had come to know him.

John was born on April 23, 1943, in Ogden, Utah, to Dr. Homer Rich and Carolyn Rich. He grew up in Ogden and attended Ogden High School. He later continued his education at Weber State, Boise State, and the University of Utah.

John proudly served his country in the United States military, with service in Vietnam, Korea, and Germany. Throughout his military career, he was honored with several medals and commendations, including two Bronze Stars. His years of service were an important part of his life and reflected his dedication, courage, and commitment to others.

Throughout his professional life, John worked as a computer engineer for numerous companies around the world. He was also a Senior Architect with BEA Systems, Inc. His career took him to many places and allowed him to use his intelligence, curiosity, and talents throughout his life.

John had many interests and found great joy in learning and experiencing new things. He loved his BMWs and especially treasured his father’s vintage Jaguar. He was a pilot and loved flying small airplanes. He also enjoyed golfing, riding his bicycle, and riding motorcycles. John and his wife, Gloria, shared many wonderful adventures together as members of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle group and the Temple Riders motorcycle group.

Music was another important part of John’s life. Over the years, he played the trumpet, saxophone, piano, and organ. Never one to stop learning, at the age of 65 he began learning to play the violin.

Above all, John loved the gospel of Jesus Christ and had a deep love for his Savior. He served four missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served one mission in Boston with his wife, Diane, and later served three missions with his wife, Gloria: in Yerevan, Armenia; Omaha, Nebraska; and a St. George, Utah, live-at-home mission. John loved being a missionary and particularly treasured the opportunity to serve alongside and support the full-time missionary elders and sisters.

One of John’s favorite scriptures was Alma 19:33:

“And they did all declare unto the people the self-same thing—that their hearts had been changed; that they had no more desire to do evil.”

That scripture reflected the faith John carried throughout his life and his desire to follow the Savior.

John was a kind, generous, and selfless man. He quietly helped many friends financially and cared deeply for those close to him. He had a giving heart and was always willing to help someone in need. His family will remember his generosity, his many interests and talents, his devotion to the gospel, and the love he had for his family.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Homer Rich and Carolyn Rich; his sister, Becky Rich; his son, Matthew Rich; and his wife, Diane Moyes.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria Rodgers Rich; his children, John Rich (Shelly), Wendy Butters (Paul), David Rich (Stacy), and Patty Rich; as well as his stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved very much.

He is also survived by his brother, David Rich (Jeanie); his sisters, Mary Goodwin (Rex), Kathy Davis (Larry), and Carolyn Rich-Denson; along with many other family members and dear friends whose lives were touched by John.

John lived a full and remarkable life of service, faith, adventure, learning, music, and love. His family will miss him deeply, but they find comfort in their faith and in knowing that the relationships and love shared with John will continue beyond this life.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Legacy Village Memory Care for the tender, compassionate, and loving care they provided to John. Their kindness to John and his family will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Indian Hills Chapel, located at 1282 West 500 South Circle, St. George, Utah. A visitation will be held at the from 10:00 - 10:45 a.m., at the chapel, prior to services. Graveside services will be in the Tonaquint Cemetery at 12:15 p.m.