Rayanna Christiansen

Rayanna Larsen Christiansen, 83, of Orem, Utah passed away at her home on Wednesday, August 18, 2021. Rayanna was born on December 21, 1937 in Provo, Utah to Rex Larsen and Mary Ann Barton. She married the love of her life, Terry Christiansen, on June 18, 1957 in the Salt Lake City Latter Day Saint Temple. Together, Rayanna and Terry had eight children – Steve (Renee) Christiansen, Merlene (Brent) Moody, Brian (Michelle) Christiansen, Cindy (Scott) Cisney, Susan Fisher, David (Sunsuk) Christiansen, Michael Christiansen, and Richard (Lalene) Christiansen.

Rayanna had a long and happy marriage of 64 years. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother. She was sure to impress upon those around her, the importance of family. When you spoke with Rayanna, you had all of her attention and felt the love that she had to share. Rayanna could often be found in her beautiful flower garden, and she was always willing to help teach others how to plant, grow, and tend to their own gardens. Rayanna was a lifelong learner, believing that it was never too late to learn new things, or teach others new skills. One skill Rayanna had in particular was her ability to crochet beautiful doll dresses, which were treasured gifts she shared with her children and grandchildren.

Rayanna and Terry served two service missions at the Lindon Cannery.  If any of their grown children or grandchildren needed a place to live, for a few weeks, a few months, or for years, they were welcomed with open arms. Terry and Rayanna were never "empty nesters".

Rayanna was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and believed strongly in a life beyond the veil. Rayanna is survived by her husband, Terry, eight children, 40 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Joe Larsen, Bart Larsen, and two sisters, Martha Carroll, and Mary Ann Christensen.  She is preceded in death by her parents, Rex and Mary Larsen, her sister Carolyn Westwood, her brother Kenneth Larsen, her daughter-in law Carole Christiansen, and her two grandsons Scott Fisher and Steven Moody.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in the LDS  chapel located at 1090 North 400 East, Orem. A viewing for family will be held from 6-6:30 p.m. and then opened for the public from 6:30-8:00pm at Sunberg Olpin Mortuary located at 495 S State St. Orem, Utah on Friday, August 20, 2021. A viewing will also be held prior to her funeral from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at 1090 North 400 East in Orem, Utah. The burial will be in the Salem Cemetery.

Rayanna’s family asks that you please wear a mask when attending both the viewing and funeral, and that you stay home if you are feeling ill.

For those unable to attend the services, you may view the Services HERE

Condolences for family may be expressed on this page.