Rial Smith Storey

Rial Smith Storey, loving husband, devoted father, and doting grandfather and great-grandpa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on August 12, 2025. He was born in Ogden, Utah on April 5, 1947, to James Russell Storey and Exer Whitlock Storey.

He married Arla Jeanne Wessler on October 4, 1966. Together they had two sons, Jerrod Rial Storey and Jason Walter Storey. He is survived by his cherished wife, Arla; two sons, Jerrod (Stacy) and Jason (Lori); three grandsons: Casey, Kyle, and Kade; and one granddaughter, Shelby—whose lives were touched by his character and wit. He loved them ASL! They will always cherish memories of camping, fishing and drinking V8 juice with grandpa. He also leaves behind three great-grandsons: Knox, Jax, and Colter, who brought him immense joy. He also leaves behind 3 bonus grandchildren and 4 bonus great-grandchildren.

He was an honorably discharged U.S. Army Veteran. He dedicated his post-military career to serving the community of Weber County as a Building Official and previous to that was a firefighter and fire inspector at Hill AFB. He was a Friend of Bill W. for 37 years until his passing. He was a keystone in the community and served hundreds in their journey. He was on the board of trustees at Valley Camp for many years which he held very close to his heart. While working for Weber County he was instrumental in the inspections of the 2002 Winter Olympic venue at Snowbasin. His favorite pastime was fly fishin’, rippin’ lips, and strippin’ line. He fished many years on the West Fork of the Madison River in Montana with his friends, sons, and grandsons.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Russell Whitlock Storey.

As per his wishes, no formal services will be held. Instead, family and friends will come together next spring at Valley Camp to celebrate his life—a time to honor his memory through stories, laughter, and love. Date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to Valley Camp, 5325 N. Fork Rd., Eden, UT, 84310 or on their website www.valleycamputah.com