Richard Jess Pocock

Richard Pocock, our beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on April 10, 2026, from complications related to a recent injury and surgery. In the quiet hours of the morning, his mortal journey came to a close, surrounded by his three children. Yet his eternal journey continues, as he is reunited with Peggy, his dear wife of 51 years… and counting. Although he will be sorely missed, his legacy will live on in the hearts, and lives of all who knew this gentle, humble, and loving man. 

One of Richard’s favorite scriptures reads: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” This verse not only formed a foundation for his marriage but was a guiding principle throughout his life. 

Of the many paths that Richard walked in life, most of them were certainly not easy – filled with medical, financial, and employment related trials. However, at every turn he quietly and humbly acknowledged the Lord without hesitation. 

This pattern of faith began early when at the age of 12 he fell from a moving vehicle and suffered a severe head injury. This fateful accident resulted in a life-long battle with epilepsy, grand mal seizures, and ongoing short-term memory loss. Despite these challenges, he never complained about his lot in life or trials caused by these conditions. Rather, you would find him quietly on his knees in the still of the night, or the early light of day, giving thanks for his blessings and pleading with the Lord for direction and strength. 

In 1965, Richard’s next path led him to Upstate New York where he served in the Cumorah Mission for the LDS church. While there, his faith was tested once again with the unexpected passing of his mother. Left with deep sorrow and the difficult decision of coming home early, he did what he always did – he prayed. While the decision to stay was difficult, he “sought inspiration” and followed the direction he received from the Lord. 

Among the many events that followed, none were more impactful than crossing paths with Peggy while performing in a local production of the musical "Oklahoma". Their close friendship soon turned to love and they were married in the Salt Lake Temple on March 28, 1975. For the next 42 years, Peggy would selflessly hold Richard in her arms during each and every one of his countless nocturnal seizures. In turn, when Peggy’s health confined her to a wheel chair, you would find Richard pushing his dear wife from bus stop to bus stop as they joyfully traversed the valley one block, one walk, and one bus at a time. 

Early in their marriage, they were informed that they would most likely never have the blessing of a family. In response, however, Richard confidently relied once again on his faith, his prayers, and his trust in the Lord. Three years later, their prayers were answered when they welcomed one of their greatest joys in life: their three children, "the triplets." 

As an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Richard always put his faith into action as he followed the “covenant” path. He humbly accepted any calling he was given, and faithfully served as a temple worker many different times. In addition, his trust and faith were always present in the home. Daily family prayer and scripture study were just a part of the routine, even if that meant getting everyone up at 4 a.m. before he took the bus to work. In his later years the pattern continued as Richard and Peggy listened to the scriptures together on a daily basis. 

With Richard’s path now extending heavenward, there is no doubt that his earthly journey was walked with humility, perseverance, and faith. As promised, the Lord truly did guide him at every step, He "directed his paths" for the better, and sustained him when the journey grew rough. Richard was a light and example to all who knew him and he will be the same for those who meet this wonderful and loving man on the other side. We will miss him dearly, but look forward to a joyful reunion in the future. 

Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy, and his parents, Wilford and Lula Pocock. He is survived by his children: Megan (Jeremiah), Christopher (Nicole), and Tamara (Paul); his sister, Cheryl; five grandchildren; one great-grandson; and seven bonus grandchildren. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, at the LDS meetinghouse located at the corner of 4100 South and Bangerter Highway in West Valley City, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 9:00 to 10:40 a.m. Interment will follow at Redwood Memorial Cemetery.