Mary Lou Church

Mary Lou Church
Panguitch, Utah

    Mary Lou Corlett Church, 96, was born on April 24, 1927 in Cedar City, Utah to Leo and Ina Heyborne Corlett. She peacefully died on September 6, 2023 in Panguitch, Utah.  Mary Lou married Val Dolph Church on October 15, 1947 in Pioche, Nevada.  Their marriage was solemnized in the St. George Temple on December 15, 1951.  Mary Lou and Val were married for over 72 years.
    Mary Lou was exceptionally skillful in anything she attempted.  Each of her children and grandchildren are recipients of her handiwork, which includes quilts, afghans, baby blankets, booties and so much more.    She loved to be outdoors—roaming the hills, looking for arrowheads, gathering pine nuts, and working in her beautiful yard and garden. 
    She grew up spending many hours with her beloved grandmother, Mary Heyborne.   Grandma Heyborne helped her develop a love and knowledge of nature.  She was especially proud of her ancestor, Mary Corlett, one of the original founders of Southern Utah University.
    Mary Lou was an exemplary wife, mother, and grandmother. She was the backbone of our family.  Mary Lou devoted her total energies to each member.  She saw to their every need, from their first breath to her last breath.  
    Mary Lou was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; and had an unwavering faith.  She was especially appreciative of the young men who brought the sacrament to her home when she was no longer physically able to attend services.
    Mary Lou is survived by her children: Valerie (Douglas), Blaine (Helen), David (Lisa-Michele), Bruce, Kathryn, Carolyn (Robert), Dolph, and Richard (Cheryl).  She is the grandmother to 25 grandchildren, and many great and great-great grandchildren.  Mary Lou was preceded in death by her husband, (Sept 11, 2020), and youngest daughter, Sandra Heidorn.
    As her beloved husband said, “We marvel at her ability to listen and perceive.  She never offends with too much conversation or a sharp tongue.  She doesn’t gossip.  She expects no advantages and always gives more than she receives.  She is the best the Lord had to offer.”   She will be missed.
    Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 12:00 Noon in the Panguitch Stake Center.  Friends may call prior to services at the church on Tuesday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Burial will be in the Panguitch Cemetery.  Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti.  Online guestbook and live streaming of the services at www.maglebymortuary.com below Mary Lou’s obituary.