Darren McKay Nielsen

In Loving Memory of Darren McKay Nielsen

September 14, 1971 – January 13, 2026

Darren McKay Nielsen, age 54, passed away on January 13, 2026, in Payson, Utah. He was born on September 14, 1971.

Darren was the beloved son of Jerry Byron Nielsen and Doris Elaine Freestone Nielsen. He grew up surrounded by family and strong values that shaped the kind, hardworking man he became.

On June 22, 1991, Darren married Stefanie Lee Burch. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple in June 1992. Together they built a loving family and a life centered on the belief that families are forever.

Darren was a hard worker who loved talking to people and could make friends wherever he went. He had a deep love for sports—especially the Dallas Cowboys, the Utah Jazz, and the Mammoth—a passion he joyfully shared with his son. Above all else, Darren was a kind and loving father who cherished his children dearly.

He is survived by his wife, Stefanie Lee Nielsen, of Payson; his sister, Shelly Leftwich, of Vineyard; and his three children: Christian McKay Nielsen (Skylee) of Payson, Devyn Hunter Nielsen of Payson, and Ashley Nicole Nielsen of Payson.

Darren also had nephews and nieces, and a grandnephew and grandnieces whom he dearly loved.

Darren was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Doris Elaine Nielsen and Jerry Byron Nielsen.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 789 Arrowhead Trail, Payson, Utah.

A viewing for family and friends will be held prior to the service from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church before the services.

Interment will take place at Payson City Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Sundberg Funeral Home, Springville, Utah.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.