Kody James Nilsson

Dr. Kody James Nilsson
April 24, 1986 - May 29, 2025

Dr. Kody James Nilsson passed away on May 29, 2025, in Austin, Texas, at the age of 39. Born on April 24, 1986, in Richfield, Utah, he was the third and youngest child of Robert Kirt and Tamara Lynne Nilsson.

Even at a young age Kody was full of joy, curiosity, and compassion and let us all know he wanted to become a doctor. Known for his kind heart, sharp wit, and generous spirit, Kody made everyone feel welcome and included. He was a loyal friend, always ready to lend a hand.

As a twelve year old Kody’s desire to become successful was manifested when he wanted to take over his older brother’s lawn mowing business. Later he started his own business, Hillside Nursery, growing and selling bedding plants in the spring and poinsettias in the winter. Kody was a hard worker.

As an excellent student, Kody enjoyed learning. In middle school, he played the tuba, French horn, and trumpet, and later joined the high school band “Kickin’ Brass”, the Madrigals singing group and the tri-county singing group “One Voice”. He was a member of both the cross country and tennis teams. Kody was inducted into the National Honor Society, elected as a state officer in the Future Business Leaders of America and was honored as the Central Utah Sterling Scholar in Business.

After graduating from South Sevier High School, Kody attended Westminster College, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. While studying, he also worked for Intermountain Heath Care in their payroll department and later conducted research for Idaho Technology on medical innovations. During this time, he enjoyed snowboarding, ran multiple marathons, and traveled extensively for work throughout the United States and Europe. Though he found success in research, he ultimately chose to follow his heart and pursue a lifelong calling in medicine.

Kody earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Ross University School of Medicine in April 2016. He completed his residency at the University of Wyoming Family Medicine Residency Program and became board-certified in Family Medicine.

During his residency, Kody met his lifelong partner, Lonny Krause. Together they moved to St. George, Utah, in 2019 to begin their medical careers. Their family included three beloved dogs-Sammie, Gerald, and Milton-who were their pride and joy. He had a natural talent for bringing people together-whether he was hosting an elaborate themed dinner party, planning a vacation down to the last thoughtful detail, or decorating for the holidays as if it were a championship event. Whatever Kody did, he did it with full-hearted enthusiasm. He lived life out loud-bold, over the top, and wonderfully unfiltered. To know Kody, was to love Kody.

Kody is survived by his partner, Lonny Krause; his parents, Robert and Tamara Nilsson; his brother Kirt Christopher (K.C.) and sister-in-law Jessica Nilsson; and his sister Kami Lynne and brother-in-law Jacob Johnston. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, laughter, dedication, and love.

Funeral services will be Monday, June 9, 2025 at 12:00 Noon in the Monroe Stake Center. There will be a viewing Sunday evening, June 8, 2025 from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at Magleby Mortuary and prior to services on Monday from 10:00 - 11:30 am at the stake center. Interment will be in the Monroe City Cemetery.

Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook www.maglebymortuary.com

Live streaming can be found below Kody’s obituary