Bennett Pulley Peterson

Bennett Pulley Peterson, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2024, in his 89th year.

Born on April 28, 1935, in Val Verda, Utah to Florence Lorene Pulley and Bennett Theodore Peterson, he was the second youngest of 15 children and was the last survivor of his siblings. A native of Bountiful, Utah, he attended Davis High School where he was active in leadership roles. Upon graduation, Bennett chose to serve the Lord in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Northern California Mission from 1955-1957. After completing a faithful mission, he returned home to marry his high school sweetheart, Rose Ann Snell. Together they had 4 children and 46 wonderful years together. 

Bennett's faith was central to his life. He was a dedicated disciple of Jesus Christ, serving in various capacities within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout his life. Bennett wrote, “The elements of religious faith I was exposed to as a child and which I have embraced because of my experiences growing up and as an adult, are the most important ingredients of my life. They’re what I give thanks for in my prayers every day.”

A graduate of the University of Utah, Bennett continued his education at George Washington Law School. During his time in DC, he worked for the Department of the Navy and also as an early morning seminary teacher. After graduation, he dedicated his career to both private practice and public service. He served as the Davis County Attorney and was known for his strong work ethic and desire to help people, often working one-on-one with his clients. His achievements also included the successful development of the Maple Hills subdivision and a thriving law practice in Bountiful, Utah.

Having grown up in a family filled with music, where gatherings were enriched by song, he later honed his talent, taking voice lessons and singing for twenty-five years with the Utah Symphony Chorus. He served for more than 20 years as its president.

Bennett’s heart easily turned to his ancestors. He was a principle compiler and editor of the 1000 page Easterling Family History. Remarkably, he and his older brother Ted, were instrumental in joyfully reuniting the Mississippi Easterling and the Utah Peterson families after 50 years of separation.

In 2003, Bennett faced the immense pain of losing his beloved wife. He led his family through this challenging time with faith and belief in God’s eternal plan for families. 

In 2005, he found love again and married Ailsa Florence Williams. Together, they embarked on 19 years of adventures and service, creating new memories and cherishing their time together.

These adventures included four missions across the globe. Bennett and Ailsa served in the Bountiful Temple; Centerville Humanitarian Center; Australia Sydney, Mission; and the Tabernacle Choir administration. Bennett believed in the power of service, which he exemplified throughout his life.

Bennett's love for family ran deep. He was instrumental in organizing annual family reunions, fostering strong connections, and lasting memories. He was known for his adventurous spirit, enjoying camping, hiking, and fly fishing in the great outdoors. He particularly cherished his daily walks or runs up Mueller Park Canyon, surrounded by nature's beauty.

Bennett is survived by his wife, Ailsa Florence Peterson; children, Rose Marie Murray (John William), Bennett Alan (Nancy Louise), Bruce Arthur (Cynthia Dawn), Jennifer Roholt (James David), Karen Marie Harrop (Robb Thomas), and Jason Frederick Williams (Janae Palmer); 21 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rose Ann Snell Peterson, and all of his siblings.

He will be remembered for his energy, his smile, his sense of humor, his wisdom, his love for family, his dedication to service, his passion for music and nature and his faith and testimony of Jesus Christ. 

A viewing will be held Tuesday, March 5th from 6:00-8:00 PM at Russon Mortuary located at 1941 N. Main St., Farmington, UT 84025. An additional viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 6th from 9:45-10:45 AM immediately preceding the memorial service at the Country Creek Ward located at 625 S. 750 E., Layton, UT. The memorial service will begin at 11:00 AM. Following the memorial service, interment will be at the Bountiful City Cemetery located at 2224 S. 200 W., Bountiful, UT 84010.

Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page.   The live stream will begin about 10-15 minutes prior to the service and will be posted below.