Nov. 10, 1933-Feb. 12, 2024
David Robert Broadhead, a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather and pillar of faith, peacefully passed away on Feb. 12, 2024, at the age of 90, surrounded by his loving family. His life was a testament to service, love and unwavering dedication to his faith as a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
David was born on Nov. 10, 1933, to Elmer Robert Broadhead and Anna Else Rasmussen, on a ranch in Nephi, Utah. He married the love of his life Bonnie Rae Carter on June 4, 1954, in the Manti Utah LDS Temple. David’s early adulthood was marked by selflessness as he embarked on a three-year missionary journey in Yokohama, Japan, following his marriage.
After returning from Japan, David pursued higher education, earning his bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, and later obtaining a Master of School Administration Degree from the University of Southern California. His professional journey led him to Southern California, where he served as a teacher and assistant principal before moving to St. George, Utah, in 1974.
In St. George, David’s impact on education was profound. He was hired as assistant principal of Woodward Junior High School and later became principal at Dixie Middle School, Dixie High School, Pine View High School and assistant superintendent of Washington County School District. Through his dedication, he touched the lives of countless young people, leaving a lasting impact on the educational landscape of the community.
David’s commitment to serving others extended beyond his professional life. He served in numerous church callings within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Gospel Doctrine Teacher, Seminary and Institute Instructor, Scout Master, High Council, Counselor in several bishoprics and Bishop. He was called to serve as Mission President over the Nagoya Japan Mission, along with his family for three years. Helping others come to Christ in word, promise, and deed, brought the greatest joy to him.
After he retired, he and his wife were called to preside over the Japan Mission Training Center in Tokyo for two years. His last mission was Asia North Area Public Affairs Director for an additional two years. He served four missions in Japan for a total of 10 years with his wife Bonnie joining him for seven of those years.
David’s legacy of love and service lives on through his family. He is survived by his five children: Rodney (Susan) of St. George; Kristi (Chuck) of St. George; Steve (Jenny) of Bountiful, Kathy (James) of Highland, James (Diana) of St. George; 23 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his younger brother Fenton of Rexburg, Idaho.
David was preceded in death by his wife Bonnie Rae Carter Broadhead; his parents Elmer and Anna Broadhead; siblings Barbara, Larry and Linda; daughter-in-law Anita Broadhead; and grandson Brady Frehner.
David Robert Broadhead’s life was a shining example of love, faith and service. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral services to celebrate David’s life will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 20, at 10 a.m. at the St. George Stake Center, 591 West 500 North, St. George, Utah. Visitations will be held Monday from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd., and on Tuesday, prior to services, from 8:30- 9:30 a.m. at the Stake Center. Interment will be in Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 South Dixie Drive, St. George, Utah.
Arrangements are under the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Click here to visit the Metcalf Mortuary website for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.