Don Brigham Tomkinson

Don Brigham Tomkinson passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 27, 2025, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born March 30, 1935, in a log cabin in Fillmore, Utah, which is still standing today. His parents are Melville Alexander Tomkinson and Nona Call. He married Ilena May Burnham in the Manti Temple on May 12, 1960. Don grew up with 4 brothers and 1 sister who he dearly loved. He had a spark of playfulness and a knack for lighthearted mischief, often surprising family and friends with a clever prank or a well-timed joke. His laughter was contagious and he had a gift for lifting spirits. He graduated from Millard High School where he was well loved and served as a student body president. He received a scholarship to play football in Cedar City for the College of Southern Utah, now Southern Utah University. In his second year of college at the age of 19, he contracted Polio and suffered from the effects of Polio for the rest of his life, which left his right leg completely paralyzed. It never slowed him down or affected his life. He still did everything a superhero could do. He farmed the majority of his life in Flowell, Utah, on the family farm. His choice of farm equipment was John Deere. Growing up on a farm, he instilled in his family the value of honest work and a grateful heart. He also drove a school bus for 22 years and was dearly loved by all the students that rode with him. Later in life, Don and Ilena moved to Hurricane, Utah, to be closer to family where he worked for his son-in-laws, first at the Dale Wilson’s Farmer’s Market and then worked for Interstate Rock Products driving trucks and later the truck foreman for 20 years until he retired. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Don served a mission in the Southern States Mission, served in 4 Bishoprics, High Priest Group Leader, Ward and Stake Mission Leader, ward organist, and served time in the Manti Temple as an ordinance worker with his wife Ilena. Don and Ilena both sang in the Southern Utah Heritage Choir for 16 years, with the privilege of touring all over the world. Don lived his life with a positive outlook, never once complaining, always choosing to see the good. He was dearly loved by all and he loved the Savior deeply and often spoke with anticipation about returning home to Heavenly Father. He taught his family to cherish the scriptures and to strive each day to become their best self, to work hard, to be kind, and to love everyone. His smile would light up a room, and his love and warmth touched everyone around him. He was an incredible husband, father, and friend to all and leaves a lasting legacy of charity, love, and undying devotion to his family and friends. We miss him more than words can express, but know he is at peace, free from the trials of life, and spreading joy in heaven. Don is survived by his sweetheart Ilena of 65 years, 5 children, Andrew, Connie (Craig Stratton) Laurel (Doug Wilson) Fawn (Lyle Damon-Benally) Rodney “Hoss” (Chrissy Tomkinson) He is also survived by 27 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren and many niece and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers and 1 sister. Roy (Gloria), Howard (Gayla), Max, Remola, and Fred. Grandson’s Jazon Erickson & Brayden Tomkinson, twin great-granddaughters, Lilah Mae & Everlee Joy Holgreen. The family would like to express their gratitude to all those that helped in the care of Don, our husband and father, especially Kami, Cheryl, Lori, Nathan, and all the rest of the staff with Summit Health. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:30 at the Hurricane Stake Center. 620 S. 700 W. Hurricane, Utah. Visitations will be held on Friday, May 9th from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. and Saturday, May 10th from 9:00 am to 10:00 am before services. Interment will be at LaVerkin City Cemetery. Arrangements are made under the direction of Serenity Mortuary. St. George, Utah. Funeral Services can be viewed on YouTube under Hurricane Stake Building. https://www.youtube.com/@hurricanestakebuilding6503/streams Since Don had such a love for missionary work and spreading the word of Jesus Christ, in lieu of flowers, please donate to your ward or church mission fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or your favorite charity. Friends and Family are invited to offer their condolences at https://www.serenitystg.com/

Don Brigham Tomkinson

March 30, 1935 - April 27, 2025