Amanda Carmela Loya, 48, of West Jordan, Utah, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. Amanda was born in 1977, to Geneva and Carmelo Loya.
Amanda grew up in southwestern Wyoming where the wideopen spaces inspired her passions for the great outdoors, wildlife and landscape photography, fine arts and literature. After graduating Salutatorian from Evanston High School, she moved to the Salt Lake Valley to pursue her higher education and career. Her drafting and design skills were honed with her bachelor’s degree and more than 20-year career detailing and designing structural projects, including underground mines.
Her love of music, television and film connected her to family, friends and strangers. The pink cassette radio she sang along to as a child was replaced by live concerts throughout Utah, Colorado and Wyoming.
Aspirational, thoughtful and caring, she looked at the world for what it could be and helped others achieve their dreams, tackle their challenges and enjoy life. She collected basic needs and school supplies for women and girls through Volunteers of America. She enjoyed crafting a special meal for family and friends, exploring local distillers and brewers and breaking bread with loved ones.
Amanda is survived by her parents, Geneva and Carmelo; her brothers, Julian and David; as well as her puppy, Whiskey.
There will be a celebration of life from 2-5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24, at Level Crossing Brewing Company, 2496 S. West Temple, South Salt Lake (ages 21 and over).
Celebrations of life will be held in the greater Salt Lake City area, Grand Junction, Colorado, and Northern New Mexico at times and dates TBD.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Volunteers of America, Utah Youth Resources Center in Amanda’s honor.
