Neal Alvey Porter
Neal Alvey Porter, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Payson, Utah, on February 26, 2025, at the age of 90. Neal was the son of Ellis and Agnes Wright Porter. Born on September 26, 1934, in Escalante, Utah, the 9th of 13 children.
While still a young boy, his family moved first to Salem and then to Payson. He was a proud graduate of Payson High School Class of 1952. After graduation, he married the love of his life, his high school sweetheart, Mary Estelle Howard, and shortly after enlisted in the Army. Together they made their first home in Clarksville, Tennessee. Neal honorably served his country as a paratrooper in the Army’s 101st Airborne Division known as “The Screaming Eagles.” It was at this time, he developed a lifelong hatred and fear of flying after being forced to jump from a plane experiencing engine failure, which crashed, taking the lives of both pilots.
Neal was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and held the office of a High Priest. On June 6th, 1978, Neal and Estelle were sealed in the Provo Temple. Together they built a life filled with love, family, and a lot of fun adventures. Later they were called and served as Temple Patrons for many years.
Neal was a hard worker in supporting his family. He worked various jobs including, The Fish and Game planting fish in Utah’s lakes and rivers. He also worked as a milkman and as a part-time gas station attendant once a week for many years while being employed at Pacific States Cast Iron. He retired after more than thirty years with them.
Neal had a passion for all sports both playing and watching them. He was an exceptional bowler and was even featured on TV for his skill. Neal loved watching all sports, but the Utah teams were always his favorite. He spent time coaching Little League and Pony League baseball, mentoring his sons and young players and sharing his enthusiasm for the game. Neal and Estelle were their children and grandchildren’s biggest fans. Rain or shine, they never missed a game supporting them. He loved fishing, classic old cars, and long drives, especially his daily ride around Utah Lake with Estelle, which began in 1981. It was always a treat for family members when they got to ride along.
Neal cherished and loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Estelle, and their children: Steven (Kerry) Porter, Terri Lee Jones, Craig (Laurie) Porter, Kelly (April) Porter, and Mary Jane (Ed) Ballard and his sister Denise (Les) Youd. He was a proud grandfather to 21 grandchildren and one exchange student who called him “Grandpa,” 50 great-grandchildren, with one great-great-grandson on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Vernal, Orvil, Sarah, Raymond, Clell, Ted, Marion, Arleane, Odell, Verold Dean, and Donetta; two infant children: Janette and Larry Blake; son-in-law Willie Jones; grandson Michael Jones; and great-grandson Chase Dylan Jones.
His inviting warm nature, humor, hugs, smile and infectious giggle will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 12:00 pm. Prior to the service, there will be a viewing from 10:00-11:30 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 274 South Main Street, Payson, Utah. Following the service, Neal will be laid to rest with military rights at Payson City Cemetery, 400 North 800 East, Payson, Utah.
The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude to all the health care providers for their exceptional care and support they have received. Please share your memories of Neal’s life at www.WalkerMemorials.com.
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