Mary Joyce Taylor Jefferies

Mary passed away peacefully at home on September 11, 2025, at the age of 79, surrounded by her loving family and supported by her dedicated caregivers, Tammi and Anna Lee. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Mary touched countless lives with her kindness, warmth, and unwavering care, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met, including those fortunate enough to only briefly encounter her. 

Throughout her life, she maintained an unwavering testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and found peace and strength in His redeeming love and infinite forgiveness. She held various callings in the LDS church, such as Cub Scout Den Mother, Primary President, and participated in the Stake Relief Society. 

Mary was born on January 1, 1946, in Provo, Utah, to Jesse Taylor and Mildred Bestwick. She was lovingly raised by her mother, Mildred, and stepfather, Herb Marston, whom she adored. A proud “Provo Girl,” Mary carried a deep love for her hometown throughout her life. She attended Provo High School, where she shined as a spirited majorette, mastering baton twirling—a talent she happily demonstrated to anyone who doubted her skills. Mary went on to study at Trade Tech (now Utah Valley University), earning a secretarial degree before beginning her career at a local bank. She later used her secretarial expertise with the Jordan School District, where she eventually retired. 

In high school, Mary met the love of her life, Wesley Euray Jefferies. They were sealed for time and all eternity on June 29, 1966, in the Salt Lake Temple. Soon after their wedding, Wes was deployed to Germany, where they lived together for two years before returning to Utah. They eventually settled in the Enchanted Village neighborhood of Midvale, where Mary lovingly raised six lively children she adored. For the last 22 years, she and Wes made their home in Riverton, blessed by wonderful neighbors who became like family.

After retirement, Mary fully embraced the passions that brought her joy: gardening, camping, and spending treasured time with her children and grandchildren. She also took great delight in crafting her daily “honey-do” lists for her devoted husband, a lighthearted tradition that spoke to the love and partnership they shared. 

Mary is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Herb and Mildred Marston, her sister Shirley Woodard, her brothers Norman and Robert Taylor, her precious granddaughter Adeline Marquardt, and many other dear family members who now welcome her in heaven. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 58 years, Wesley Jefferies; their children Julie Jefferies, Scott (Adrianne) Jefferies, Samantha (Jeff) Russell, Jason (Sadie) Jefferies, Shawn Jefferies, and Jessica (Sean) Marquardt; 13 treasured grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and her sister, Carolyn Cook.

Services will be held on Saturday, September 20th, at 10:00 a.m. at the LDS Church located at 2750 W. 13400 S., Riverton, Utah 84065. We would like to encourage everyone to share a story or message on the available platforms, as we are sure there are many stories yet to be heard. In lieu of flowers, donations to the “Honey-Do-List” fund would be welcomed. Thank you to all of the family, friends, neighbors, and nurses who were always there for her!