Jean Tamayo Marquez

Jean passed peacefully in the early morning of October 29th, 2026 living in her childhood home after spending her last years there beating back cancer while caring for her father, husband and finally mother. Born on May 12. 1960 in Kemmerer WY. She grew up in the SLC Liberty Park area, attending Lincoln Jr. and South High schools, where she graduated with honors. 

Now reunited with her best friend and beloved husband, it was love at first sight. Bill revving his truck, Jean feet planted as a student crossing guard. They were happily married 45 years when Bill succumbed to cancer. Most of their life was enjoying nesting in their bespoke home in west side SLC, Popular Grove area, raising two children there.

As a teen Jean worked at Auerbach’s Department Store and Tampico Mexican restaurant, two historical firsts in downtown commerce, then for Travelers Insurance company after which she spent 25+ years at UPS as a loyal employee where she retired as a knowledgeable and diplomatic rep and advisor for the Corporate Customer Services department. Family, friends and coworkers all know Jean as generous, compassionate, and loyal with a wicked sense of humor. Many of us are grateful and succeeding thanks to Jean. 

Jean’s pride and joy were her grandchildren Xander, Mia and Crew. Her adoration and admiration grew with each passing year. Taking them to school, going on trips, debating the Marvel Universe were the highlights of retirement. As a lover of crosswords and an avid reader of all subjects, from Sci-fi to neo-westerns, cooking and current events, Jean was wise in experience and context. Getting all her kids together, bonding with extended family, in-laws and friends, trying new hobbies and in the end providing excellent care-giving despite the grief and sickness were her priorities and our family’s example for a life with dignity. 

She is survived by daughter, JoAnn (Dominic) Poulos, son, Alex (Valerie) Marquez, grandchildren, Xander, Mia and Crew Marquez, sister-in-law Mary (David) Coolbear, brother-in-law Gary (Bonnie) Marquez and many dear cousins, nieces and nephews from both sides of the family. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill, parents, Fred and Nancy Miyake, sister, Gloria, and Mother In-Law Evelyn Marquez Southwick and Father In-law Ray Marquez. 

Thank you to Huntsman Cancer Institute, Huntsman at Home and CNS Hospice for their compassion and dedication. And to our amazing community of extended family and friends of the family- including in-laws, neighbors, coworkers, our deepest gratitude for the abundance of love and support.

A Celebration of Life will be held December 4th, 7:00-9:30PM, at Cactus & Tropicals Salt Lake City, 2735 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84109.