Don Francom

Derwin Don Francom passed away August 11, 2026 at his home in Evanston, Wyoming.

On July 27, 1939, Don was born in Payson, Utah. He grew up on the family farm, milking cows, hauling hay and working in the fields where he developed some of the strongest hands the world has undoubtedly ever seen. He never lost that strength.

Don was called up first to serve his church as a missionary in Illinois. Then called to serve his country as a soldier for the United States Army. He served for three years, attaining the rank of SergeantE5 and spent most of his enlistment overseas in Korea and on the island of Okinawa. These years of service were some of the most formative of his life and a source of countless stories.

Upon completion of his military service, Don returned to Utah. He attended Snow College, where he met the love of his life, Barbara Anderson. They were married in Manti, Utah on June 25, 1966.

Don obtained an Associate’s Degree from Snow College, Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from BYU, and a Master’s and Doctorate Degree from Utah State University.

He spent his professional career in service as Principal or Superintendent of Schools in school districts in Utah, Wyoming, Colorado and Nevada. He worked tirelessly for the benefit of students and staff alike.

Don was also a Journeyman Carpenter. He often seemed happiest and most content to be building something. He would jump at the chance to help any of his family or school personnel frame, sheet rock, paint or install flooring. He loved to create.

Don’s greatest love though was his Family, his wife, six children, twenty-two grand children and seven great grand children to date. He loved them, not always sure how to show it; but he loved his family deeply and was loved in return.

The other great love for Don was his love and appreciation for his Savior, Jesus Christ and his testimony of and faith in His church. Don returned home to the Lord he tried so hard to be of service to, after a valiant battle with cancer.

May we remember his love, his goodness, his strength and unfailingly beautiful hair.