Ira Amond Fulton

Ira Amond Fulton

November 12, 1931 – August 21, 2026

Chandler, Arizona — Ira Amond Fulton, 94, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, businessman, philanthropist, and man of faith, Ira will be remembered above all for his lifelong passion for helping people help themselves.

Ira was born on November 12, 1931, in Tempe, Arizona, near 8th Street and Mill Avenue, in what is now the heart of downtown Tempe. Born during the Great Depression, he grew up in an era that instilled in many a deep appreciation for hard work, perseverance, resourcefulness, and looking out for others. Those values remained at the heart of Ira's life.

He was the son of David and Mertie Fulton. His Arizona roots ran deep, and throughout his life, he remained closely connected to the people and communities around him.

In 1954, Ira married the love of his life, Mary Lou Fulton. Together they shared a long and meaningful marriage and raised three children: Gregory Wayne Fulton, who preceded them in death; Lorie Ann Fulton; and Douglas Scott Fulton. Mary Lou also preceded Ira in death.

Ira was blessed with a large and loving family, including dozens of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family was a source of tremendous joy and pride, and the lessons, values, and love he shared with them will continue through generations.

A successful businessman and entrepreneur, Ira believed that true success was measured not simply by what a person accomplished for himself, but by what he could do to help others find their own path to success. Helping people help themselves was both his greatest hobby and one of his life's greatest callings. He generously gave his time, resources, encouragement, and opportunities to others, making a lasting difference in countless lives.

Ira was also a dedicated philanthropist and a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His commitment to education and to developing future generations was reflected in his generous support of engineering education. Engineering programs at Arizona State University and Brigham Young University bear the Fulton name, serving as enduring reminders of his belief in education, opportunity, and the power of helping others achieve their potential.

Those who knew Ira will remember his generosity, entrepreneurial spirit, faith, and willingness to lend a hand to someone who needed an opportunity or a second chance. He understood that sometimes the greatest gift one can give another person is not simply doing something for them, but providing the means, encouragement, and confidence to do it for themselves.

Ira is survived by his daughter, Lorie Ann Fulton; his son, Douglas Scott Fulton; his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his extended family, friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Lou Fulton; his son, Gregory Wayne Fulton; and his parents, David and Mertie Fulton.

Ira Amond Fulton leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, service, generosity, and opportunity. From his beginnings in Depression-era Tempe to a life devoted to business, philanthropy, faith, and service, he dedicated himself to making a difference in the lives of others.

His greatest legacy may be found not only in the institutions that bear his name, but also in the generations of people he encouraged, supported, and helped, and whose lives will continue to be influenced by the opportunities he created.

Funeral Services

Funeral services for Ira Amond Fulton will be held Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Chapel, 800 W. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, AZ 85248. 

A graveside interment will follow at Dignity Greenwood Cemetery.

Ira Fulton will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.