Fred Heywood: 40 Years of Community Care

Fred Heywood: Beloved Barber, Athlete, Father & Community Builder

Fred Heywood (1935–2019) was an outstanding neighbor, a gifted athlete, and a beloved barber in the heart of Granger. Born in Panguitch, Utah, Fred graduated from Panguitch High School where he shined in basketball, baseball, and track. His athletic talents earned him a basketball scholarship to Dixie College, where he played for two years before pursuing barbering as a lifelong profession.

Fred owned and operated the Oquirrh Hills Barber Shop at 5974 W 3500 South for over 40 years—a neighborhood fixture still standing today. His gentle demeanor, kindness, and ability to see the good in everyone made his shop more than just a place for a haircut—it was a gathering place for stories, friendships, and community spirit.

In 1955, Fred met and married his sweetheart, Rita Rae Webb, in St. George. They eventually settled in Granger, where they built their only home and raised four children: Kevin, Thomas, Klinton, and Kassi. The Heywoods also opened their hearts to others through foster care, eventually leading Fred to serve as President of the Utah Foster Parent Association.

Fred was an exceptional athlete in his youth and remained an avid sports fan throughout his life. His love for music—born while singing on the family farm—carried into adulthood, where he sang with the “Swanee Singers,” a male vocal group, and spent many hours volunteering at Jordan Valley Hospital alongside Rita. He also served as PTA president and school volunteer, constantly giving back to the community he loved.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Fred developed a unique “Sunday School Family Presentation” program that was adopted churchwide for many years. His passion for genealogy and storytelling helped root the Heywood family in faith, history, and connection.

His legacy lived on brightly through his children, who excelled in both sports and music. If you were watching the local high school news in the 1980s or 1990s, chances are you'd hear a Heywood name mentioned—either scoring the winning basket or starring in the school musical.

Fred and Rita passed away just two months apart, a testament to their eternal bond. Their contributions to Granger and West Valley will never be forgotten.

The barber Pole is so charming and still does it’s job beckoning to travelers along 3500 south

This is my son and was taken 5 yrs ago….at by the Lucero’s Barber that now resides in the shop

Fred Heywood wasn’t just a barber—he was a trusted friend, a great listener, and a quiet hero in the heart of Granger.