Misty Esplin

Misty Esplin, our earth angel, passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the age of 59. She was born September 19, 1966, in St. George, Utah, to David Spencer and Olive Brooks Esplin, as the youngest of seven children. Misty went to school at East Elementary, Dixie Jr. High School, and Dixie High School. Living with Down syndrome, Misty built a full and joyful life through her programs, friendships, and love for others.

From a young age, Misty filled rooms with love, friendship, laughter, and celebration - any reason would do. Through her mother's work in the Dixie College Theater Department, she spent many happy hours watching rehearsals, making friends with students and faculty, and even joining in as an unofficial member of Roene "Di Fairy" DiFiore's Program Bureau for a time.

Misty later became part of the "Don't Laugh at Me Players," a group of others with disabilities performing throughout the St. George area and helping raise awareness for people like herself. She delighted in being on stage and sharing her joy with others.

In her twenties, she moved into an apartment with her roommate and best friend, Shelly Hansen, and was assisted by many wonderful women through the years. Along with her many special friends, she was a part of the Dixie Advantages/RISE Day program. You may have seen her working at Harmons through this program, but you couldn't stop to talk with her because she would tell you, "I can't talk, I'm on the clock."

She participated in the Special Olympics, karate classes, water aerobics, and Special Needs Mutual. Maybe you were blessed to receive one of her priceless plastic canvas tissue boxes or bookmarks. Coloring and word searches were some of her favorite activities, and a new box of crayons always made it better.

Misty's motto was "What can we celebrate today?" She would find any reason to party and loved life. The party would become even better when family gathered and would hand her a cold Diet Coke.

Some of Misty's talents were helping others feel loved, seen, and happy. She knew how to brighten your day with her smile and laugh, and she called you by name. She was also a comforter. She had love and empathy for those who were hurting. In her home, she would start to cry if anyone was fighting, so consequently, her siblings weren't allowed to fight. Her impact and legacy will live on through the countless memories of her sayings, chance encounters, and friendships shared so freely with everyone she met. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her, with the comforting assurance that, in the Lord's due time, we will be reunited with our beloved sister, aunt, and friend.

She is survived by her brothers and sisters, Nicholas Esplin (Judy), Mesa, Arizona; Tyler Esplin (Patti), Enterprise, Utah; Stefinee Pinnegar (Fred), Orem, Utah; and Fran Stucki (Wayne), St. George, Utah. Misty was preceded in death by her parents, David Spencer and Olive Brooks Esplin, and by her brothers Kiplin Max Esplin and Degory Brooks Esplin.

It is with happiness that we send our sweet Misty to heaven, with gratitude for the love and joy she has given our family and friends.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. in the St. George Third Ward chapel (200 West 500 North). A viewing will be held before the funeral at the same location from 10:00-11:30 a.m. She will be laid to rest in the St. George City Cemetery (650 East Tabernacle).

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah. 435-673-2454.

Friends and family are invited to share memories and sign Misty's online guestbook below.