James Leroy Behunin

James Behunin
Salina, Utah

 James “Leroy” Behunin, passed away February 14, 2025 at his home in Salina. James was born on April 22, 1956 in Price to Homer and JoAnne Marie Bowser Behunin.

 James lived in Ferron for the first three years, then moved to Redmond where he spent the rest of his youth. He attended North Sevier High School, but got his diploma later in life.

 A free-spirited man James never settled down in one place for too long. He lived in many places including California, Tennessee and all over Utah. He had a love for Tennessee and always dreamed of moving back there someday.

 James had several jobs throughout his life. Some of them were as a maintenance worker, security guard, dairy worker and a seed picker.

 He loved old country music, genealogy, drawing and fishing. Many of us have some of James’ drawings. He loved Redmond Lake and could always be found at the lake, kicked back in a chair with a drink in one hand and his fishing pole in the other. James spent many hours with several different family members and friends at the lake. He would pull his camp trailer out there and stay as long as he could without getting in trouble.

 James loved animals. He raised several different kinds of birds. He sold his pigeons to whomever would buy them from him. He also loved raising fish — guppies seemed to be his favorite; but he did try breeding bettas as well. Of all the animals James loved, his dogs were his favorite. They meant everything to him. He said, “They make the best companions. They love you no matter what your past is,” and he felt the same way about them.

 The last few years of James’ life his health declined. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is no longer in any pain and has finally found somewhere to call home.

 He is survived by his sisters: Carma Lynn Scott, Salina; Stephanie (Kenneth) Ball, Redmond; nieces and nephew; beloved dog, Screamer.

 Preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Verty Anne Behunin, Ted Behunin.

 Cremation in the Magleby Mortuary and Cremation Center. Memorial services will be held at a later date. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com