Mary Parcell

On a beautiful summer evening, our beloved Mary Alice Turnbow Parcell completed her long, remarkable life. She passed on May 29, 2025 in Heber City, Utah. The beautiful Heber Valley was Mary’s home for all but four of her 93 years. We know she closed her eyes to pain and mortality, opening her eyes to the loving arms of those anxiously awaiting her arrival.

Born on February 23, 1932, she was one of six children. Her parents were Horace “Bill” Turnbow and Dorothy Barker “Byrdie” Turnbow. Raised in a large family through the depression, there she learned her work ethic, her independence, and most important, her love of family. Mary entered the world with a mischievous sparkle in her eye and a heart full of compassion.

Mary adored her family. Children, Brent (Terri) Parcell, Lorraine Parcell, Patti (Bryan) Lloyd, Jan (Jeff) Niederhauser. Nine grandchildren, Jacob, Preston, Shane (Chelsey) Parcell, Brandon Lloyd, Marianne Lloyd (Parker) Dennis, Scotty Niederhauser, Lindsay Niederhauser, Michelle Yee (Pexay) Kamchathphay, Garrison Yee. Seven great grandchildren. Her grandchildren knew Mary’s door was always open. There they were guaranteed a treat and a Grandma Mary hug.

Mary loved serving her family, her community, and her church. She was President of the American Legion Auxiliary. Mary was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Days Saints. She taught Primary for over twenty years in the Heber Third Ward.

Mary was a graduate of the 1950 Class of Wasatch High. It was December of 1951, she married another Wasatch alum, Glade Parcell. Their marriage later solemnized in the LDS Temple. Glade’s four years with the Navy allowed Glade & Mary to start their young family in San Diego. Thanks to his sharp mind and hard work, Glade was an Air Traffic Controlman at the famous Miramar Naval Air Station.

When Glade’s Naval commitment ended, they were anxious to return to the Heber Valley. Together, they built a home on 100 East, where Mary would live the rest of her life. With a new home, three children and a fourth on the way, Glade tragically passed in an automobile accident May of 1961. Now a widow at age 29, Mary would live another sixty-four years and two days after Glade’s passing. She beautifully navigated all of life’s challenges, never complaining, never asking for a handout.

Mary’s close relationship with her sisters Darlene (Gene) Probst, Deana (Clive) Maxwell, Gaye (Joe) McPhie, were a tremendous source of support, friendship and love throughout Mary’s life. Younger brothers Kent (Gayle) Turnbow, Mark (Jean) Turnbow were deeply loved by Mary. Mary’s sisters (the twins) Darlene & Deana, brother Kent, brothers-in-law Gene Probst, Clive Maxwell, & Joe McPhie preceded her in death. Also preceded in death by her beloved grandson Preston Parcell.

Mary’s life is a legacy of selfless love. Her broad circle of friendship extended to people from all backgrounds, beliefs, and lifestyles. Mary had a passion for family gatherings. She was an outstanding cook. Her made from scratch pies were legendary.

Mary was a mother to all. She was busy caring for her family and seeking the well-being and happiness of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. When the children were older, Mary was fortunate to manage the State Liquor Agency in Heber City. Here she made many new wonderful friends. She had a special savings account designated for her “final party.” Her reasoning, she did not want to burden anyone with an expense, even at her passing.

In appreciation of Mary’s deep love and devotion to all, her final party will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday June 7th. Midway Stake Center 165 North Center Street. Program begins at 11am. There will be a viewing from 10 to 10:45. Burial at Midway City Cemetery.