Marlene Wade Lyons
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About Marlene Wade Lyons
Marlene Wade Lyons, 92, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025. Born on September 27, 1933, in Ogden, Utah, Marlene dedicated her life to her family and her faith, and she was loved by all who knew her.
Marlene was raised on a farm in Pleasant View, Utah. She milked cows, excelled in school, went to church weekly, and lived a happy childhood surrounded by a loving family and friends.
Marlene had a love and incredible talent for music. As a teenager, she sang with her sisters, once coming in first place—to the Osmond Brothers’ second—in a competition.. She sang tenor for the Harmonettes, an a capella quartet that performed at church, fairs, and on the radio. Marlene wrote and produced several award-winning roadshows for her congregations in Scottsdale and Mesa. Well into her 80’s, Marlene wrote special songs for children. Her love of music brought great joy not just to her, but to those fortunate enough to hear her sing, play the piano, and produce musicals.
It was music that brought her together with the love of her life, John Lyons. They met while Marlene was working in music production at the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. They settled in Arizona, where Marlene put John through law school. She spent her adult life devoted to John and to raising their three children. She taught them her love of music, devotion to others, and most of all, love for the Savior.
A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Marlene served in many church callings. From 1991 to 1994, Marlene and John served together as mission leaders in the Philippines San Fernando Mission. Their missionaries loved her, and she loved them, and this was reflected in the visits from those missionaries that continued for decades after their service ended. Aside from church service, Marlene spent countless hours caring for friends, making crafts, sending cards, preparing meals, and in endless devotion to uplifting others.
Marlene is preceded in death by her beloved husband, John; parents, Mac and Fay Wade; brother, Kent; and sister, Patricia Soni. Marlene is survived by her sisters, Jeri Kap and Dyan Ellebracht; her children, Michael (Shari), Suzanne Rauch (Jim), and Richard; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 25th at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1150 E. Guadalupe, Gilbert, AZ 85234. A viewing will be held from 9AM to 11AM with a service at 11:30AM.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
8 comments
Karen van der Werf
Marlene was such a dear friend. I learned so much from her with her classy way of doing things. Such a talented and loving woman. It was a privilege to get to know you and your family. Unfortunately I’m in the hospital so I couldn’t attend the funeral. I’m so grateful I could share this special day via you tube. Beautiful tributes to multi talented Marlene.
Tammy Choules Pinnock
Marlene was such a sweet influence on my life. She served so well with her husband John in our stake presidency with my parents in Scottsdale and in the Temple presidency with my Dad and Marilyn in Mesa. Always a bright light and loving example. I had a most sacred experience with her just before my mother Rosemary passed away. She put her arms around me and was a great source of comfort and said things that got me through a very difficult time. I will be eternally grateful to her for that moment in my life. To her kids, thanks for taking good care of such a great lady!
Robin Bauer McAdam
Sister Lyons was one of the most inspirational people in my life. She was teacher at church, I learn so much from her those years. I had the honor of being in one of her musicals for the road show. What a hoot! Absolute perfection! I still remember braiding my hair in pigtails and running a wire through it so they would curl up. We sang the Candyman! Such a wonderful loving human being. She was Christ like in everything that she did. I’m so happy that she’s back with her John as both sister and brother Lyons were so inspirational in my life and in my family’s life.
Mike, Susie, Rich… Thank you so much for sharing your mother with us All those years ago. She was a true blessing.
Rolando Rollog
I was one of their son as missionary in the Philippines San Fernando Mission. She have taught as a lot in how the become productive in such a way to develop individual aspects. Her soul is so kind and loving. Thank you for all the things you have taught and contributed to me and to others as well. God be with you till we meet again..
Mary Alice Reeves.
If you wanted something done and done right Ask Marlene. She was a perfectionist. She was an exceptional woman that loved her family and her Heavenly Father.
JoMarie Woolf
Marlene was one of a kind
She started our Bunco Babes where we played Bunco just twice and then we just got together for lunch
She always had real cute invites and wonderful treats and activities
Some of my fondest memories are with these BABES.
I remember when she wrote a real clever road show and even got my husband to wear a real cute costume when he played his trombone along with John..
She’s one of a kind.
Mareen Whiting
I became acquainted with Marlene several years ago in Daughters of Utah Pioneers. She was always so gracious and kind. I will cherish our friendship.
Monty and Jean Newlin
Mike and Shari, we’re so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. What a wonderful lady she was! Our love and prayers are with you and your family.