Earl Jay Christensen

BURLEY – Earl Jay Christensen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 26, 2026, at the age of 89.

Earl was born on February 5, 1937, in the Springdale area near Burley, Idaho, on a cold winter’s day to Olaf Edgar and Nellie Moncur Christensen.

From a young age, Earl learned the value of hard work and service on his father’s farm where he tended to animals, irrigated fields, and helped in countless other ways. His early experiences working the land alongside his parents and siblings shaped the person he would become.

As a boy, Earl spent many hours playing in the sagebrush and sand by the Snake River banks with his brother Robert. During these formative years, he became acquainted with the Book of Mormon and God which had a profound and lasting influence on his life. Later, when his grandchildren would tell him about problems they were facing, his first question was frequently, "Have you been reading the Book of Mormon?" He knew what a blessing scripture study could be. Earl’s devotion to faith, family, and service would define his legacy.

Earl graduated from Burley High School where he demonstrated leadership and dedication in many areas. He continued his education at Brigham Young University-Provo and developed a love for learning, which resulted in him being an avid reader of scholarly literature. Though he thoroughly enjoyed academic pursuits, his heart was always tied to the land. He frequently returned home to help his father with the farm.

In 1957, Earl left for Finland to serve as a full-time missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His mission experience deepened his faith and instilled a lifelong commitment to service in the Church.

Earl met Kathryn Zollinger at church. They had a wonderful courtship during the summer by irrigating and doing farm work. After returning home from his mission in 1960, Earl married Kathryn in the Logan Temple, beginning a life of love and partnership.

Shortly after their marriage, Earl was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served his country with honor. Upon returning home from military service, Earl resumed farming, working alongside his father and, later, his own family.

Earl’s family was the center of his world. He was the proud father of six children. His devotion to his children, and his legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in them and their families.

In addition to his family, Earl remained dedicated to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to his community. He spent countless hours in service, whether on the farm, in Church callings, through missionary work, or community service.

Earl believed deeply in the power of kindness and the importance of helping others. His legacy of faith, prayer, hard work, and love will be carried forward by his children, 29 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Olaf Edgar and Nellie Christensen; his siblings, Doral, Eugene, Howard, and Carol; his sons, David, Douglas, and Joel; his son-in-law, David Allred; and his grandson, Seth.

He is survived by his wife Kathryn; daughter, Dorene Allred; his daughter- in-law, Kim; his sons, Dan (Melinda), and Jay (Karla); his brother, Robert and sisters, Lois and Sue Ann; along with his grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and many dear friends.

Earl’s family would like to thank the many medical professionals, friends, and family that served him during his last few years.

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 9, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - Declo Idaho Stake Center, located at 213 W. Main Street, in Declo, with Bishop Tyler Silcock officiating. Military rites will be provided by the Mini-Cassia Veterans Group. Burial will be at Pleasant View Cemetery in Burley.

Family and friends will be received from 5 until 7 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th Street, in Burley, and from 10 until 10:45 a.m. Monday, at the church, preceding the service.

A live webcast of the Funeral Service will be available and maintained at the following link: https://youtu.be/M6XH9dm6aLo.