Jerry Wagstaff (1942–2022): Businessman, Civic Leader, and Founding Father of West Valley City

Jerald “Jerry” Wagstaff was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, businessman, and civic leader whose life reflected kindness, dedication, and service. Known for his genuine compassion, warm smile, and the familiar twinkle in his eye, Jerry was a man who cared deeply about people. His thoughtful guidance and steady presence blessed countless lives throughout his remarkable journey.

Born in Salt Lake City in 1942, Jerry grew up in Sugar House and cherished memories of visiting his grandparents in Holladay. He graduated from Highland High School and served as a missionary in the Scotland Edinburgh Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After returning home, he married his sweetheart, Laura “Floy” Seeley, beginning a 58-year marriage filled with faith, hard work, and family devotion.

After settling in Granger, Utah, Jerry quickly became an integral part of the community. With determination and vision, he established Holiday Oil, beginning as a one-man operation that he built into one of Utah’s most successful and respected service station chains. Working tirelessly, he grew the business through perseverance and sound judgment, surrounding himself with loyal associates who shared his values and drive. Today, Holiday Oil continues under the leadership of his sons, Mike and Scott Wagstaff, extending the family’s entrepreneurial legacy.

Jerry came from a family with deep roots in Utah’s petroleum industry. His uncle Stanford Wagstaff served as president of Beeline Refinery, and Stanford’s sons Nate and his brothers were pioneers in Utah’s gas station business. Jerry expanded on that legacy, taking over his father’s two stations before leasing 18 more—a foundation that propelled the steady growth of Holiday Oil.

In addition to his business success, Jerry played a vital role in shaping local government. When the communities of Granger, Hunter, and Redwood united to form West Valley City in 1980, Jerry was elected as one of the city’s first three commissioners, serving alongside Mayor Henry (Hank) Price and Commissioner Renee Mackay. The trio provided crucial leadership in the city’s early years, helping to establish a stable foundation for Utah’s second-largest municipality. In 1981, the West Valley Chamber of Commerce and The Green Sheet newspaper honored them for their vision and perseverance, calling Jerry “an extraordinarily stabilizing factor” in the city’s formation.

Jerry’s lifelong devotion to faith and service extended through decades of commitment to his church and community. He served in numerous callings, including as Bishop of the Cottonwood 13th Ward, and later presided with his wife over the California San Francisco Mission. Together, they ministered to hundreds of missionaries, forming cherished bonds across the world.

In his leisure time, Jerry found joy in boating, waterskiing, and family trips to the mountains and the family cabin. In later years, he and Laura “Floy” enjoyed time in St. George, surrounded by friends and the peace of Southern Utah.

Jerry Wagstaff’s life was marked by integrity, service, and leadership. From his early business ventures in Granger to his foundational role in West Valley City, he left a lasting legacy of enterprise, faith, and community spirit. His influence continues to be felt across Utah—a reminder that true success lies in lifting others along the way.

From Service Station to City Hall: The Vision of Jerry Wagstaff