Marlene Townsend Bird

Marlene Townsend Bird, age 67, of Smithfield, UT passed away unexpectedly on February 6, 2023 from a home accident.

Marlene was born 11/22/1955 to Marlin and Lois Townsend in Prosser, WA. After graduating from Warden High School in 1974, she attended business college in Yakima, WA. She later graduated with an Associates Degree in Accounting, from Ricks College in Rexburg, ID.

In 1976, Marlene served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Hers was the Central America Mission covering the countries of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, and Honduras.

After serving her mission, she met her future husband, Kelly Bird, at a church dance. Marlene went off to BYU in Utah and Kelly continued his education at Ricks College. Their first official date was on December 26, 1978. They immediately hit it off and a month later, on January 26th, Kelly proposed to her, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Three months later, on April 26th, they were married in the Idaho Falls Temple.

In 1980, while attending BYU in Provo, UT, their first son, Jason, was born. After Kelly graduated, they moved back to Washington and settled in Bellevue. In 1982 they welcomed Janelle, followed by Justin in 1987.

In 1993, Marlene and Kelly returned to their farming roots and moved to Mattawa. They bought some land and began planning trees in their new orchard. Marlene contributed to the farming operation in the accounting arena, but her greatest passion was that of being a loving wife and wonderful mother and grandmother.

Marlene loved to travel and she and Kelly were privileged to visit many fascinating countries around the world. She was always looking forward to the next adventure.

Marlene was proceeded in death by her mother and father, and sister, Sherry Townsend Higgins. She is survived by her husband, Kelly, and children Jason Townsend Bird (wife Kassi), Janelle Marie Bird and Justin Duane Bird, five grandchildren (Kizzy, Max, Avy, Mkena, Jaxon) and one great-granddaughter (Yara). Marlene LOVED her grandkids.

Marlene brought happiness and love to everyone she met. She could light up a room, just by entering. Our family is grateful for all the beautiful blessings Marlene brought into our lives. The support and prayers offered on our behalf, will always be remembered. Thank you.

Memorial services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, February 25, 2023 at the Smithfield Ward, 600 South 625 East. Arrangements by Allen-Hall Mortuary. www.allenmortuaries.com