Paul Joseph Young

Paul Joseph Young (born Paul Joseph Bedford, Jr.), 72, passed away on May 25, 2025, in Provo, Utah, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 7, 1952, in Gardena, California, to Sally Lee Dodt and Paul Joseph Bedford, Sr., Paul was later adopted by his stepfather, Charles Young. He graduated from Redondo Union High School in 1971, where he was a member of the marching band, playing drums, and competed in track and field.

At age 16, Paul joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and, at 19, chose to serve a full-time mission in Central America, where he lovingly served the people of Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama from 1971 to 1973. Upon returning home, he met the love of his life, Beverly, at the airport—a moment that marked the beginning of their eternal journey together. They were sealed in the Los Angeles California Temple on September 5, 1974.

Paul pursued his education with enthusiasm and determination, earning a BA in Political Science in 1979 and an MA in Political Philosophy in 1980, both from Brigham Young University. He went on to receive his JD from the J. Reuben Clark Law School in 1983. Paul and Beverly tackled these academic years hand in hand—she often sat at the typewriter, taking dictation and helping him complete his numerous papers, including his master's thesis and doctoral dissertation. Paul was admitted to the Utah Bar in 1985 and was accepted to practice before the District Court and Utah Supreme Court.

Though trained as an attorney, Paul’s passion for teaching led him to the classroom. He was a beloved professor of philosophy at Utah Valley University, where he inspired countless students with his intellect, humor, and heart. He also loved teaching outside the classroom—he frequently coached youth sports teams, creating positive, uplifting environments where kids could learn, play, and grow.

In the late 80s, Paul returned to his roots by owning and operating Stan’s Drive-In in Provo, a nod to his grandparents who ran restaurants in Redondo Beach, CA. He loved working the grill, chatting with customers, and especially looked forward to Monday nights—Half-Price Shake Night—when the line would wrap around the building.

Paul was a man of many talents. He was a gifted writer and artist who created until the very end. He was known for his love of science fiction, holiday decorations, and quirky collections—from knickknacks to an extensive library of movies on VHS, DVD, and Blu-ray. He was a music enthusiast, film lover, dashboard drummer, self-designated dishwasher, and a man who never passed up an opportunity to brighten someone’s day.

Paul loved people deeply. He loved talking with them, learning their stories, and lifting their burdens. His service in the Church was a steady thread throughout his life, and he especially cherished his time as an ordinance worker in the Provo City Center Temple.

When his children were asked to describe him, they offered this list: sci-fi fan, writer, talented artist, lover of holiday decorations, collector of knickknacks, movies, music, shopping, and coaching. But more than anything, Paul will be remembered as a man who gave his heart freely—to his faith, his family, his students, and his community.

Paul is survived by his wife, Beverly (Watters) Young; children: Shannon (Kristian) Källåker, Nichole (Rob) Hendricks, Heidi (Thomas) Kazery, Rachelle (Luke) Gunderson, Jessica (Chris) Vincent, Jamie (Daniel) Miller, Natalie (Alex) Baker, Elizabeth (Caleb) Bailey, Christopher (Mariah) Young, son-in-law Jeff VanWagenen, 35 grandchildren, siblings: Helen Wilt, Roberta Marshall, and Charles Young.

He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Rebecca VanWagenen, and granddaughter Isla Vincent.

A visitation for family and friends will begin at 9:30 am - 10:30 am on Thursday, May 29th at the Hobble Creek Stake Center at 495 S. Canyon Road, Springville, UT. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 am.

Interment will be held, following the service, at the Evergreen Cemetery in Springville, UT.