Stephen Mather

MATHER, STEPHEN SCOTT Stephen Scott Mather, 72, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2018, surrounded by his family. Stephen was born on March 24, 1946 in Logan UT, the youngest of eight children of George and Alice Mather. He was raised in Utah, enjoying reading, family, and farming. He graduated from Utah State where he met and married the love of his life, LaRae Knighton. Together, they moved to Arizona, raised eight beautiful children and created many happy memories. Stephen worked as a highly regarded trust officer for over 45 years, retiring in 2015. He greatly valued time with family, creating many wonderful memories through countless camping trips, family outings, and holiday gatherings. He enjoyed traveling, reading, and especially attending school and sporting events starring his children and grandchildren. Stephen was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in many callings, including Bishop of the Sunburst Ward and Ordinance Worker in the Mesa and Phoenix Temples. He served his mission in Japan and had an enduring love of the Japanese people. He had a deep love of his Savior Jesus Christ, and devoted his life to Him. Stephen made a heartfelt and lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be fondly remembered by family and friends as a devoted spouse, loving father and grandfather, and a compassionate friend who was always willing to give a helping hand to those in need. Stephen is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, LaRae; eight children; Jennie (Dan) Faulkner, John (Colleen) Mather, Daniel (Emily) Mather, Machelle (Dan) Jones, Richard (Sarah) Mather, Philip (Rebecca) Mather, James (Robyn) Mather, Marc Mather and 30 grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Ronald, and sister Karen (Ron) Keller. Services will be held at 1:00 PM on April 6 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 4901 W Union Hills Dr, Glendale, AZ. Graveside Services will follow at 3:00 PM at Phoenix Memorial Park, 200 West Beardsley Rd, Phoenix, AZ. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute. Service Information The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Interment Details Phoenix Memorial Park