James Gadd

James Fred Gadd, beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away May 19, 2023, in West Hollywood, California. Born April 27, 1948, in Payson, Utah, Jim was a treasured addition to his family. His arrival was greatly anticipated by his parents, Fred L. and Itha P. Gadd, and his older siblings. In his youth he enjoyed participating in Boy Scouts, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and attending the National Jamboree. He loved road trips with his parents, especially to visit family. Jim’s creative talents were evident when he was young, and he was able to apply them in his career and throughout his life. He was an accomplished pianist and artist and painted a mural on a building on Nephi Main Street representing Juab County.

He attended Brigham Young University, where he studied Art and Theatre. He was actively involved in community theatre programs before joining the production team for the Donny & Marie show when it was filmed in Utah. This collaboration prompted his relocation to California, where for 36 years he worked with costume designer Ret Turner, assisting on countless film and television projects, live performances, cruise ship shows, and many holiday specials. As the Workroom Coordinator for Elizabeth Courtney Costumes, he organized and worked on every manufactured show or act that came and went from this legendary workroom and oversaw its delivery. Tina Turner, Cher, Pink, and Mitzi Gaynor costumes were made there. He assisted Bob Mackie on the film Mrs. Santa Claus starring Angela Lansbury and Gypsy starring Bette Midler, among others. During the years that Bob Mackie produced a couture line, Jim was in charge of the production.

His artistic abilities were expressed not only in his career, but also in his home. Jim enjoyed classical music, had an eye and great appreciation for beauty, and lovingly kept his garden, which was carefully curated to produce rare, large dahlias and exotic white flowers. His dinner parties were events not to be missed. He loved celebrating Christmas — the music of the season, decorating his tree and home, visiting his family, and hosting wonderful gourmet dinners for dear friends. He was always kind, compassionate, generous, and thoughtful, more concerned about the welfare of others than himself, and sure to remember special occasions with a carefully-selected card or gift. He will be dearly missed. 

Jim is survived by his sister, Margaret (Mike) Brady of Littleton, CO, and ten nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Carol Kingsolver, and his brother Galen Gadd.

A graveside memorial service will be held at Vine Bluff Cemetery, 1240 N 400 E, in Nephi, Utah, on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 11:00 am. Services provided by Anderson Funeral Home of Nephi.