
Richard Brent Gordon, age 81, passed from this life onto his next adventure on December 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving family in the comfort of his home. With a heart full of adventure and a spirit of hard work, Brent left a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Born on March 13, 1943 to Vaughn and Elizabeth Gordon, Brent grew up in a world full of hard work, family, and the beauty of the land. His childhood was shaped by the rhythm of farm life, where he spent countless hours on horseback with his cousins Earl, Stan, and nephew Gary, herding cattle from Cleveland to Scofield for his Uncle Melvin. From an early age, he learned the values of perseverance, loyalty, and the bond between family and the land.
At the age of 18, Brent enlisted in the National Guard and served his country, training at Fort Polk in Louisiana. After completing his service, he moved to Salt Lake City, where he began his career as a lineman installer for Mountain Bell, which later became US West. It was during this time that a blind date would change his life forever. He was introduced to Hilary Johnson, a young woman on vacation in Salt Lake City. Their meeting marked the beginning of a lifelong love story—the cowboy and the lady—which would result in the birth of four beautiful children whom Brent adored with all his heart.
Throughout his life, Brent always had a farm. He and Hilary worked side by side, raising animals and instilling in their children a deep love for the land, family, and hard work. Brent was known for always having a good dog by his side, and a few horses, too, which he treated like family. Together, they built a life full of memories, laughter, and love.
Brent’s contributions to his community were many. He served as a Scout leader, taking part in numerous camp-outs, cookouts, and trail rides. For many years, he was the grounds manager for the Huntington Arena, playing a key role in the construction of the new grandstands and playground equipment. He also directed the Heritage Days Rodeo, a beloved tradition in the area. His work ethic and commitment to community were unmatched.
Brent and Hilary also pioneered two businesses together. Despite working full-time jobs and farming, Brent put his hands to work building a beauty shop and later Gordon’s Nursery and Floral. His construction skills, honed from years in the phone company and on the farm, were evident in every project he touched. After retiring, Brent continued to be an active part of the business, initially as the maintenance man and later as the beloved flower delivery driver known throughout Emery County.
Even as Brent’s eyesight began to fade, he remained involved, directing from the passenger seat or his easy chair at home. He could fix anything with a little up-cycled lumber, twine string and black tape, and his resourcefulness became legendary.
Above all, Brent taught his family the greatest lessons in life: unconditional love, hard work, and the importance of family. He never met a stranger, and his ability to make others feel welcome and valued was a testament to his generous spirit.
Brent is survived by his loving wife, Hilary; their children: Tammy (Terry) Oviatt, Jim (Sarah) Gordon, Frank (Wendy) Gordon, and Josh (Amber) Gordon; 22 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Vaughn and Elizabeth Gordon; his siblings, Ross (Reva) Gordon and Joyce (Keith) Larsen; his daughter-in-law, Stacey Gordon; and grandsons, Sharidan Oviatt and Treven Brazier.
Brent Gordon’s journey may have ended, but the next great adventure awaits him. His family and friends take comfort in knowing that his love and spirit will continue to guide them.
The Family would like to thank Symbii Home Health and Hospice, especially his nurse/granddaughter Tiana and Dr. Cam Williams, for their love and compassion through this difficult time.
A Celebration of Life for Brent will be Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 11:00 a.m., at Miller’s Landing/Mitchell Funeral Home in Huntington (123 North Main Street) where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Arrangements are entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends and family are welcome to share memories of Brent online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.