LeGrand Gold, a devoted father of five hailing from Utah, passed away at the age of 48 after valiantly battling colon cancer for two years. His remarkable journey, marked by love, resilience, and a cherished encounter with country music icon Dolly Parton, came to a poignant close on February 8.
Described in his own obituary, largely penned by himself, LeGrand was celebrated as a pillar of support for those around him, embodying the steadfast presence upon which others could always rely.
Fulfilling a lifelong dream, LeGrand, affectionately known as L.G., shared a heartfelt exchange with Dolly Parton via video call just before Christmas. The country legend, whose music had been a source of inspiration for LeGrand throughout his life, expressed genuine gratitude for his unwavering admiration. In a touching moment captured on YouTube and shared with the world on December 22, 2023, Dolly conveyed her joy in sharing a bond with LeGrand, reflecting on their shared journey through life.
“I really do thank you for shooting out the word that you’d like to talk to me,” Parton expressed. “I’m just happy that we got to kind of have our journey together in this lifetime. I always want to make people happy with my music and with the things I do and the things I say, and I’m just happy to know that I’ve touched your life in some way so thank you for honoring me with that.”
LeGrand Gold’s legacy lives on not only in the hearts of his loved ones but also in the cherished memories he leaves behind, including his unforgettable connection with the beloved Dolly Parton.
LeGrand Gold: Remembering a Life of Laughter and Love
LeGrand Gold, a computer programmer and devoted husband to his wife, Alice Gold, for 26 years, left behind a legacy filled with laughter and love. His family, in crafting his obituary, chose to reflect his famous sense of humor, ensuring that those who knew him would remember his ability to bring joy to any situation.
In his own words, Gold humorously acknowledged his battle with colon cancer alongside other ailments, including a “really big thigh zit” and a touch of liver failure, quipping about his enduring love for his wife, Alice. Despite his health challenges, Gold’s zest for life shone through, evident in his passions for basketball, national parks, and his faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Gold’s greatest pride and joy were his five children − Abigail, Sophia, Bella, Caroline, and Maximus. He lovingly described them as his “biggest accomplishment” and “most diverse collection,” humorously adding that while his wife claimed they worshipped the ground he walked on, he was too busy marveling at the stars they reached for.
In celebrating LeGrand Gold’s life, his family honored his unwavering spirit, his infectious humor, and the profound love he shared with those closest to him.
Heartwarming Encounter with Dolly Parton
In December, LeGrand Gold had the extraordinary opportunity to meet Dolly Parton via video call, where he expressed his immense gratitude to the “Jolene” singer for being a significant source of support throughout his life, particularly during his challenging battle with cancer.
Captured on video by his wife, Alice, the heartwarming exchange saw Parton extending warm wishes for a merry Christmas to LeGrand, accompanied by a touching rendition of her iconic song, “I Will Always Love You.”
Reflecting on the encounter, LeGrand shared with local station KSL-TV that, faced with the news that his cancer treatment was no longer effective, he compiled a bucket list of aspirations, with meeting Parton being among them.
Initially doubtful of ever realizing this dream, LeGrand was pleasantly surprised when Parton graciously granted his wish, culminating in their heartfelt conversation on December 22, just in time for the holiday season.
Battling Cancer with Positivity and Humor
Despite his relatively good health, LeGrand Gold was diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer in 2021, embarking on a challenging chemotherapy journey in the ensuing years.
With the support of his loved ones, Gold’s GoFundMe page has garnered over $23,000 in donations as of Friday. His family fondly remembers him for his unwavering positivity, generosity, and sense of humor.
Described as a gentle yet humorous individual with impeccable comedic timing, Gold served as the steadfast anchor of his family, cherished by all who knew him.
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