ST. GEORGE — Marcia Chalk Wade peacefully passed away, surrounded by her loved ones, on Sunday morning, April 14, in St. George, at the age of 78. She shared a deep love with her husband, Stephen Wade, marrying in 1972 and held strong for 51 years.
Their union brought forth five remarkable children: Tyler (Alaina) Wade, Corbin Wade, CJ (Sheena) Wade, Sheridan (Josh) Harris, and Adam (Jordyn) Wade. Marcia relished her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother, survived by 22 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, along with nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Marcia was born on June 14, 1945, in Richfield. She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, a kind and loving woman, Christlike in her actions, continuously serving others in her family, community and church, and known for being a force for good. Her family meant everything to her, she put them above all else. She had a strong testimony, she stood for what she believed in and lived her beliefs every day.
Marcia has now been reunited with her father, Edner Chalk and mother, Daisy Knaphus Chalk; along with her sister, Dixie; brothers, Sterling, Donny and Fred; and other family members that have preceded her. She grew up with two brothers and one sister, spending her childhood years growing up in Monroe, a place of cherished memories, young friends and teen record rallies.
Due to her father’s health conditions, the family needed to live in a warmer climate, so her family tried moving to St. George as a remedy. To their surprise, they realized that they needed an even warmer climate. This search led them south to Lehi, Arizona, for a short period of time, then on to Mesa, Arizona, where she spent the remainder of her high school years. Unfortunately, at the early age of 17, she lost her father to his battle with Bright’s disease.
Marcia attended Mesa High School, where she became a Mesa High “Bunny” cheerleader, and was heavily involved in her high school activities, graduating in 1963. With the recent passing of her father, Marcia felt a need to stay home and help support her family, but her mother insisted that she attend Brigham Young University.
While attending BYU, Marcia was a dedicated and serious student, who had to work while attending school. She was involved in many organizations such as Orchesis (modern dance fraternity), Sports Women (service social club), and Sounds of Freedom (large school choir). After obtaining a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate, she taught third, fourth and fifth grades for the Jordan School District. She had a passion for education and loved being a teacher.
After teaching for five gratifying years, her family began, ending her teaching career. Her role as a mother was her eternal calling. She naturally turned all of her efforts and attention to being a homemaker, wife and mother, raising her five children.
Throughout the years, Marcia set an example of selflessness and generosity not only for her children but also for others. Her random acts of kindness were daily. For many years, she chaired “Lights For Life,” co-chaired “Fire & Ice” for 20 years, and served on the Dixie College/Utah Tech Foundation board for 17 years. She had a love for dance and the arts and enjoyed her time serving on the board at Tuacahn.
She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many callings. Of these, serving as Young Women president and Stake Relief Society president with the young single adults were her favorites. Marcia absolutely loved these opportunities to serve, but nothing meant more to her than her children and family. She was blessed with the opportunity to travel and see the world, but she always preferred being home with and near her family!
Marcia set her life’s compass at an early age, mapping out her mortal path and progressing with little deviation. She had a strong testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, possessing an unwavering love of our Heavenly Father. She taught us not only through her words but through her actions. Her legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to have known her. Her kindness, integrity, and devotion to her family will be forever cherished. It has been said many times: “To know her is to love her!”
Funeral services will be held Monday, May 6, at 11 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel, 1285 North Bluff Street, St. George. Visitations will be held Sunday evening from 6-9 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd. and on Monday, prior to services, from 9-10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment will follow in the Pine Valley Cemetery, Pine Valley.
Livestreaming of services may be viewed at this Zoom link.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221. Please visit their website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.
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