Byron Riches

Byron Jay “Pete” Riches passed away on October 11, 2025, after a lifetime of service to his Church, his family and friends, neighborhood, and Sons of the Utah Pioneers during his later years. He loved taking care of God’s beautiful earth and passed that love on to others. The last two weeks of his life were filled with his entire family and many friends expressing their love, thanks, and goodbyes to him thru phone calls, visits, and beautiful songs. He was a beloved brother, husband, dad, grandpa, friend, and neighbor. He was affectionately called Uncle BJ, Uncle Pete, Petey-Pie, Pop Pop, Grandpa Great, and boss man.

Byron had an outgoing personality and everyone he met became his friend. He had a story, joke, or song for every occasion. He began singing at a very young age and continued throughout his life. He was a valued member of many large performing choirs including the Jay Welch Chorale, many quartets, and many Church and community choirs. He participated in roadshows, sang at funerals, weddings, dozens of Christmas programs, and other events. He was well remembered as playing Tevye in a production of Fiddler on the Roof. He also participated in The Messiah for many years singing the bass solos so beautifully. His grandchildren and greats loved to sing songs with him whether in person or on FaceTime.

Byron was born to Lawrence and Alice Bennett Riches on July 22, 1933. Byron was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and often bore testimony of his Savior and the need for parents to teach the hymns in their homes. He praised the Prophet Joseph Smith as his “hero.” He always became emotional when leading patriotic, pioneer, and Christmas songs.

Byron is survived by his five children—Bradley, Shauna (George), Sharon (Ted), Marianne (Mark), Karen (Don), 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 71 years, his son Steven, parents, 4 sisters, 1 brother, and many close relatives.

Our family would like to express appreciation to those friends and neighbors that visited Dad so often after the passing of our Mom. It helped ease his loneliness. We also appreciate the compassionate service given to him during the last several months by his caregiver Mote.

A viewing will take place Friday, October 17, 2025 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Holladay 26th Ward (4601 Chapel St., Holladay, UT). Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at the church building at 11:00am with a viewing prior from 10:00am to 10:45am. Interment will be at Elysian Burial Gardens.