William Eugene Baucom Jr.

William Eugene Baucom Jr. Obituary

February 21, 1929 - October 19, 2024

William “Bill” Eugene Baucom Jr. passed away peacefully in his home in Pleasant Grove on October 19, 2024, at the age of 95. Born in Independence, Missouri, to William E. Baucom Sr. and Martha Elizabeth Leamon, he was raised alongside one sister and three brothers before the family moved to California.

A standout athlete, Bill excelled in high school sports, earning letters in football, baseball, and track at Clovis High School. His true passion was football, which led him to play semi-professionally for the Oakland Allstars from 1956 to 1959. His love for the game continued as he became an avid supporter of the BYU Cougars.

At 21, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served bravely as a Sniper/Sharp Shooter during the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. His service was marked by bravery, culminating in stepping on a landmine, which resulted in two Purple Hearts, the Korean War Service Medal, and a Bronze Star. Throughout his life, he shared his experiences from the war, giving presentations to schools and at various military events, ensuring that his story would inspire future generations.

Following his military service, Bill attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a degree in X-Ray Technology. It was during this time that he met and married Beverly Vannest, and together they raised three children in Hayward, California. The family later moved to a small farm in Parowan, Utah, and eventually settled in West Jordan, Utah (later divorcing).

In 1963, Bill was baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after missionaries visited their home in California. He embraced the gospel, passionately sharing his faith with others and serving as a Young Men Leader, Boy Scout Leader, and Ward Mission Leader. His commitment to the church profoundly influenced those around him.

Bill worked as a Portable X-Ray Technician, traveling to nursing homes to provide essential services. In 1976, he founded Salt Lake Portable X-Ray. Although his dream of owning and operating an apple orchard was never realized, he worked most of his life trying to reach his goal. 

In his later years, Bill enjoyed a cherished friendship with R’Lene Hoggan, with whom he traveled and shared many happy moments for over 30 years. She was a source of compassion and support in his life.

He is survived by his three children, Cathy Lunnen, Christy (Cory) Margetts, and Bill (Julie) Baucom III; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and his dear friend R’Lene Hoggan. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Carol Howard, brothers Bob and Don Baucom, son-in-law Marty Lunnen, and grandchildren Jaynee Margetts and Jeremy Margetts.

For the past 17 years, Bill called Pleasant Grove home, surrounded by caring church members and neighbors who supported him. The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for Bill, including ward members, friends, doctors, and nurses. Your dedication and kindness have made a lasting impact.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the North Field 2nd Ward, located at 105 W. 1800 N. in Pleasant Grove, Utah. A viewing for friends and family will take place prior to the service from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at Eastlawn Memorial Hills Cemetery in Provo, Utah.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.

For those unable to attend the services in person you may view them HERE