Lawrence Richard Mansell

Lawrence Richard Mansell, lovingly known as Larry, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, surrounded by his children. He was 85 years old.

Larry was born on September 20, 1940, in Sioux City, Iowa, and spent much of his childhood in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago. He later moved to Kentucky with his father, Donald Mansell, and his stepmother, Marie, and graduated from Lafayette High School in Lexington.

Donald was a pivotal figure in Larry's life. As a single man, Donald adopted Larry-an uncommon act at the time-bringing love, stability, and guidance during his formative years.In 1958, Larry enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served proudly as a medic. He found deep fulfillment in helping others, particularly assisting women in childbirth. While stationed in Goose Bay, Labrador, and Newfoundland, Canada, Larry joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints-a spiritual turning point that inspired him to leave the military and serve a mission in Dublin, Ireland.

He often credited his faith with giving his life direction and purpose.

Just before departing on his mission, Larry met the love of his life, Patsy Kay Dalley. After only two weeks of courtship, the two became engaged, and Patsy faithfully waited two and a half years for his return. They went on to share 59 devoted years of marriage until her passing.

Education was a core value for Larry. He earned his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University and later received a master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Santa Clara. He began his professional career as a high school history teacher in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and San Jose, California, teaching for seven years before transitioning into therapy and social work. He worked for LDS Family Services until his retirement in 2002 and spent his later years in Kaysville, Utah.

Larry had a lifelong love of sports-especially following BYU athletics and the Chicago Cubs-and enjoyed playing informal games throughout his life. He deeply valued kindness, cherished time with his grandchildren, and had a special affection for animals.

He is survived by his children: Wendy Gidewall (Kenton), Laurie Dyer (Eric), Heather Ostermiller (Jerry), Shawn Mansell; eleven grandchildren: Wade Mansell (Chris), Taylor Smedley (RobScott Smith), Justin Smedley, Jacob Smedley, Nathan Smedley, Caden Smedley, Bradley Dyer (Crystal), Casey Dyer, Emmie Dyer Edman (Jarrett), Sawyer Ostermiller, Holden Ostermiller; as well as five great-grandchildren.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patsy Mansell; his son, Paul Mansell; his father, Donald Mansell; his granddaughter, Haven Ostermiller; his sister, Martha Day; his nephew, Stevan Brant Day; and his niece, Rebecca Tuckfield.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025 at the Shephard Ward,1955 South 350 East, Kaysville, Utah, where a viewing will be held from 9:30-10:15 prior to services.

Services will be streamed live on Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and this obituary page.