Mary Lois Madsen

Mary Lois Madsen

Mayfield, Utah

Mary Lois Greaves Madsen left this earth life peacefully on September 14, 2016 in Centerfield. She lived a full life for 89 years as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a friend to many. She was born February 16, 1927 in Inglewood California, to Milton and Jennie Seely Greaves. She married her high school sweetheart, Jack Gail Madsen on September 9, 1949 in the Manti Temple. He preceded her in death January 29, 2011.

Mary Lois was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully throughout her life. She especially enjoyed serving in the temple.

In her earlier years, Mary Lois worked at Bryce Canyon. She waited tables during the day and was an entertainer and dance instructor at night.

Mary Lois made education a priority in her life. She graduated from USU with a Bachelor’s degree in Textiles and Clothing with a minor in Dance. She belonged to the Spurs and was a founding member of the Sigma Kappa Sorority. After her children were grown, she returned to BYU and earned a Master’s Degree.

Mary Lois distinguished herself as a premier home economist and 4-H leader for 20 years. Her enthusiasm for this job never diminished. She enjoyed helping the people of Sanpete County to improve their lives. Because of her guidance and gentle encouragement with the youth, she has had a lasting influence in their lives. She was honored to receive numerous awards including Utah State University Home Economist of the Year and National Home Economist Distinguished Florence Hall Award.

Of all her accomplishments, Mary Lois’ children were her crown jewels. Regardless of her adventures or professional opportunities, spending time with the family was what she loved most of all. The family cabin, Lake Powell, and other family outings provided opportunities for the family to come together, unite and strengthen family relationships.

Mary Lois had an appreciation for the arts. She composed numerous songs and assisted in writing and directing "Awanavoo", a community play. She performed with the Mayfield Double Trio for many years and enjoyed associating with the Artista Club. In addition to pursuing her own ambitions, she loved to be with Jack, supporting him in all that he did with work and other commitments. Mary Lois also enjoyed participating and serving in the women’s auxiliaries of Jaycettes, Farm Bureau, Wool Growers Association and Lions Club.

The past 20 years, Mary Lois was dedicated to her world of quilting, teaching, inspiring and sharing her talents with granddaughters, daughters and others. She enjoyed her association with the Mountain Valley Quilt Guild.

She is survived by six of her seven children: Russell Madsen, Dale (Sunee) Madsen, David (Jan) Madsen, Diane (Allen) Dyreng, Jenene (Mark) Monroe, Scott (Kerri) Madsen; sister, Margaret Amy; 37 grandchildren; 60 great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Michelle (Bret) Ashton; daughter-in-law, Debra Madsen; brother, Pete Greaves.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 23, 2016 at 12:00 Noon in the Mayfield LDS Ward Chapel, where friends may call from 6-8 Thursday evening and from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Friday. Burial will be in the Mayfield Cemetery. Funeral Directors: Magleby’s Mortuary, Richfield, UT.