Raymond Morales

Raymond Chacon Morales (78), of American Fork, Utah, beloved father, grandfather, Professor Emeritus, and renowned American graphic designer, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on November 19, 2024. Born in El Paso, Texas, on February 24, 1946, Raymond’s life was defined by his profound dedication to family, art, and education. Raised in Orange County, California, he learned early lessons in resilience and hard work, observing his father’s tireless commitment to ranching and dairy farming. As a young Chicano navigating the 1950s and 60s, Raymond overcame significant barriers, finding solace and expression in his creative talents.

Raymond found profound joy in life’s simplest and most meaningful pleasures, cherishing his three children and ten grandchildren. He firmly believed that family joy is neither casual nor accidental but a purposeful and deeply fulfilling part of life. To his family, Raymond was much more than his passions and talents. He was a wellspring of wisdom, a boundless source of creativity, and a steady presence of unwavering love. His life was a testament to savoring the moments that matter most—surrounded by family, friends, and the joy of living fully.

He spent countless hours fly fishing on the Provo and Green Rivers, where the cast of his line traced his appreciation for nature’s artistry. In the kitchen, he was a maestro, crafting gourmet meals that brought his loved ones together around laughter-filled tables, where his joy for entertaining was as rich as the flavors he created. His green thumb transformed his garden into a masterpiece, a sanctuary of blooms and a retreat in which he poured equal parts care and creativity. A fan of music that stirred the soul, Raymond’s playlists reflected his eclectic taste—whether swaying to the rhythms of Afro-Cuban jazz, reflecting on the poetry of Bob Dylan, or immersing himself in the brilliance of Amy Winehouse. On the golf course, he found camaraderie and competition, sharing laughter and rivalry with his friends.

Raymond attended Buena Park High School and Fullerton College in California before earning his degree at Brigham Young University. Before BYU, he served two years as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Guatemala and El Salvador. This experience shaped his early perspective on culture and service. After graduating, he joined the University of Utah and spent 42 transformative years in the Department of Art and Art History. As head of Graphic Design for over four decades, Raymond profoundly influenced the lives and careers of countless designers. He led the program with vision and innovation, inspiring generations of students to embrace modernism in graphic design, focusing on strong visual concepts and dynamic typography to communicate powerful messages. Recognizing his trailblazing contributions to academia and his dedication to diversity, the University of Utah established the Raymond C. Morales Post-Doctorate and Post-MFA Fellowship in 2014, cementing his legacy within the institution and the field.

Over his 50-year career in design, Raymond worked on a diverse range of projects in corporate and retail identity, communications, fine art, and advertising design. A highly respected figure in the international design community, he received numerous awards and left an indelible mark on the industry. His students and colleagues fondly recall his distinctive “Ray-isms”—unique insights and lessons that continue to shape their lives and careers.

Raymond was preceded in death by his brother, David C. Morales, his father, Raymond Domínguez Morales, and his mother, Ofelia Chacon. He is survived by his former wife, Karen Silva, and their three children: Reina Detjen (married to James, parents to Elliott, Daniel, and Sofia); Alicia Reilly (married to John, parents to Savannah, Avery, and Henry); and Raymond Daniel Morales (married to Chantell, parents to Landen, Dawson, Hudson, and Jane). He is also survived by his stepmother, Rosa Maria Hernandez Gutierrez, and his siblings: Thelma Diaz, Diana Martin, Patricia Watters, Victoria DaRé, and Fredrick Morales.

Raymond will be remembered as a loving father, proud grandfather, visionary artist, and dedicated educator. His influence in the design world and the lives of those he touched is immeasurable. His vibrant spirit and enduring legacy live on through his art, students, and the family he so deeply cherished.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 7, at Crescent Hall, 11020 S. State Street, Sandy, Utah, followed by a reception. To honor his memory and celebrate his legacy, please visit raymondmorales.com and stay tuned for an upcoming exhibit at the University of Utah featuring his fine art. 

You are welcome to share your memories on the obituary page at Anderson & Sons Mortuary.