John Carl Tuft, 92, Washington, was born in Monroe, to Leonard and Bernice Shurtz Tuft March 31, 1930. He died peacefully in his sleep Dec. 9, 2022, in Washington City. He was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He was much loved in his community. John (Carl) earned his doctorate in psychology from Utah State University. He worked for the Sevier School District for 34 years as a teacher, principal, counselor, coach and superintendent. He was also very involved with the Indian Placement Program, and he was active in the Lions and Rotary clubs. In 1992 he was presented with a Southern Utah Honor Medallion for his contributions to his community and to the state of Utah, of which he was very proud.

John (Carl) was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many callings, including bishop and in two bishoprics.

He served in the United States Army from 19521954, stationed in Okinawa during the Korean War. His assignment was to entertain the troops playing basketball, tennis and badminton. That was where he also met his wife-to-be, Doris Marie Porth. They were married in June 1954 and adopted two daughters, Carlene and Christene. They were later divorced. John (Carl) married Melody Ackerman in December 1997. They would have celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on Dec. 30. Their marriage was solemnized in the Cedar City temple in July 2021.

He is survived by his loving wife, Melody; daughters, Carlene and Christene; stepchildren, Bryan Ackerman, Brett (Tara) Ackerman, Kristi (Wade) Fautin, Kami (Troy) Madsen, Kaprece (Shannon) Staples and Kassi (Travis) Gray; 23 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Bernice; brother, Don; and sisters, Helen Webster and Arlene Lawrence.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Dec. 17, at 10 a.m. in the Coral Canyon 1st ward, located at 1950 North Coral Canyon Blvd., in Washington. A viewing will be held Friday, Dec. 16, at the ward chapel from 6 to 7 p.m. with another viewing Saturday, Dec. 17, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in the Monroe City Cemetery at 2 p.m.

Funeral directors, Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti.

Live streaming of the services and online guestbook can be found at maglebymortuary.com below John’s obituary.

The family would also like to extend our thanks to Ovation Assisted Living and Applegate Hospice for their loving care and kindness.