Theron was born Feb. 4, 1924 in Ogden to Melvin T. Phillips and Marion Jones. He attended Weber County schools and graduated from Weber High School.

He married Faye Hipwell and they had three children: Reid (deceased), Janice (Reed) Myers, and Craig (deceased). Faye passed away in 2008. He has 13 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren.

Being raised on a farm, Theron continued farming as a career after his marriage. He also worked at Defense Depot Ogden, Northern LP Gas Co., and Cream O’ Weber Dairy. After retirement, he enjoyed traveling with his wife on many short trips. He is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served as a Cubmaster, home teacher, and in various bishoprics in the Wilson Ward as Ward and Finance Clerks and Executive Secretary. Theron currently resides at Stoney Brooke Assisted Living in Riverdale.