Curtis Strong

Curtis Robert Strong, 54, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2026.

Curtis was born on July 28, 1972, in Beaver, Utah, to Robert Leon Strong and Rama Jean Evans. He spent portions of his childhood living in several different states before eventually returning to Beaver during his high school years. He grew up alongside his brothers, Troy and Brennon Strong, and some of his childhood memories included hunting with his brothers, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

Curtis graduated from Beaver High School 1990 and later continued his education, earning an associate degree from the University of Phoenix in 2012.

From a young age, Curtis had an adventurous spirit. In his younger years, he enjoyed rock climbing and even went bungee jumping in his early twenties. That love for adventure continued throughout his life, especially through traveling and his love of the water.

Curtis was a hardworking man who took on many different roles throughout his life. His work included landscaping, building waterfalls, property management, marketing, and working for the postal service. He wasn't afraid of hard work and was always willing to lend a hand. When someone he cared about needed help, Curtis was someone they could turn to.

At home, Curtis enjoyed the simpler things as well. He enjoyed watching movies, cooking, and firing up the grill. With his children and those he was most comfortable around, he had a playful side and enjoyed joking, laughing, and making memories together.

One of the greatest loves of Curtis's life was the lake. He began going to Lake Powell as a teenager, beginning a tradition and love for boating that he would eventually pass on to his children, Jade and Brendin.

Some of their most treasured memories with their dad were made on the water. Whenever he could, Curtis would get the kids up early so they could be among the first boats on the lake and have the smooth, untouched “glass” water for wakeboarding and surfing. Jade and Brendin were always excited to hear that Dad was planning another lake day, and the family especially looked forward to their yearly trips to Lake Powell and time together on the houseboat. Those early mornings, days spent boating, and family trips became memories his children will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Family memories were important to Curtis, particularly those of his father, Robert, who passed away before Curtis's children were born. Curtis often told Jade and Brendin stories about their grandfather, allowing them to know a little about the man who had meant so much to their dad.

Later in life, Curtis reconnected with Tanya Phipps, someone who had been an important part of his life many years before. Together they traveled, shared new adventures, and created many memories. Tanya was a loving and devoted partner to Curtis, bringing companionship, care, and many memorable experiences into his later years.

Curtis was also excited to become a grandfather. He was a proud grandpa to Mia and Oaklynn Howard and had the opportunity to meet and spend time with Mia, whom he loved dearly.

Throughout his life, Curtis faced a number of physical challenges, including multiple surgeries and a heart attack. These challenges sometimes made it difficult for him to continue doing all the things he once enjoyed, but when he was able, he continued to enjoy traveling, time with family, and the experiences that brought him happiness.

Curtis was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He is survived by his partner, Tanya Phipps; his daughter, Jade (Chad) Howard; his son, Brendin Strong; his granddaughters, Mia and Oaklynn Howard; his mother, Rama Jean Evans; and his brothers, Troy and Brennon Strong. He is also remembered by JoAnna Olsen Reece, the mother of his children, as well as Kjirsten Beckstead and extended family and friends.

Curtis was preceded in death by his father, Robert L. Strong, and his nephew, Coy Strong.

Curtis will be remembered for being a hard worker, his willingness to help those around him, his adventurous spirit, and the love he had for the experiences he shared with those closest to him. His children will especially hold close the stories he told, the movies they watched, the meals he cooked, the adventures they shared, and those early mornings on the lake together.

A viewing will be held Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Southern Utah Mortuary, 195 N 200 W, Beaver, Utah. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 p.m.

Following the funeral service, Curtis will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery in Beaver, Utah.

A luncheon for family and friends will follow the burial at 220 N Main Street, Beaver, Utah.