Vance J. Finlinson passed away peacefully, on February 16, 2026 in Oak City, Utah in the same blessed location he was born 90 years earlier to Dwain J. and Harriet Wells Finlinson. He lived a full and healthy life, rooted in work, faith, and family.

He was raised on the family farm and ranch where hard work, integrity, and devotion to family were abound. As a young man, he treasured time spent with his uncles, great-uncles, grandfathers, and extended family. Riding horses, tending livestock, and working the land were not just responsibilities—they were lifelong passions that helped shape the man he became.

He graduated from Delta High School and later served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Northern California, laboring faithfully in the San Francisco Bay Area. Upon returning home, he continued his education at Brigham Young University, where he earned a master’s degree in political science.

Vance possessed a deep and abiding testimony of his Savior, Jesus Christ, which anchored every aspect of his life. He served faithfully in many callings, including decades as a dedicated teacher. Gifted with a keen intellect and a profound understanding of the gospel, he was a thoughtful listener, an inspiring speaker, and a masterful teacher. His faith and testimony were pillars not only in his own life but in the lives of his family and others for generations.

In 1969, Vance married Helen George, for time and all eternity in the Manti Utah Temple. They met while she was teaching in Blanding with his sister, Judy Lyman. Together they built a beautiful life where they were richly blessed with eight children, 37 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. They made their home in Oak City, Utah on the family farm and ranch they loved.

Family was the great treasure of Vance’s life. He cherished and maintained close relationships with members of six generations. He knew each one personally, taking genuine interest in their lives, listening to their stories, offering counsel, and sharing in their joys and challenges. His remarkable memory, steady presence, and sincere love made every member feel seen, known, and valued.

Vance found great joy in nature. He loved to drive through the countryside, admire its beauty, and recite poetry and literature that captured its spirit. He was renowned for his love and command of scripture, literature, poetry, and thoughtful conversation. A lifelong learner and teacher, he shared his knowledge generously.

Above all, he was devoted to his family. His home was his haven, and being with his children and grandchildren was his greatest joy. He was always present—teaching, listening, guiding, and supporting. They were his life and legacy.

He is survived by his children: Jean (David) Turner; George Finlinson; Fran (Douglas) Petersen; Matt (Jenni) Finlinson; Joshua/OJ (Kara) Finlinson; Susan (Jared) Christensen; Heber (Shelly) Finlinson; and Jacob (Kate) Finlinson; 37 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and his siblings: Judy Lyman, Ken Finlinson, Jane Persons, Karl Finlinson, Evan Finlinson, Brent Rogers, and Sharron Hoenes.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen George Finlinson; his parents, Dwain J. and Harriet Wells Finlinson; and Dorthy Finlinson and his brothers, Rex W. and Dwain W. Finlinson.

Vance’s life was a testament to faith, hard work, learning, and enduring love. His steady example, powerful testimony, and deep devotion to his Savior and his family will continue to bless generations to come. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Vance will be remembered and honored at a viewing on Friday, February 20th, at the Oak City, Utah LDS Church from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Funeral services will take place the following day, Saturday, February 21st, at 11:00 am at the Oak City Church, with a viewing prior from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. Interment will follow the funeral at the Oak City Cemetery. The funeral stream will be available at this link:https://youtube.com/live/kAQCuVmnw5U?feature=share