Joy Marlene Oakley Scow

Joy Marlene Oakley Scow, 93 years old, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away on July 15, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ted Scow; son, Stuart; her parents and two sisters. Surviving family members are six children; Stanton (Susie), Brian (Nancy), Brad (Sue), Michele Markham (Mike), Mike (Julie), Shaun (Afton), and her brother, David Oakley. Marlene was blessed with 27 grandchildren and 73 great grandchildren and was fondly referred to as Grandma Joy. Marlene was a devoted wife, loving mother, caring friend and an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Marlene was born in Springville, Utah on April 15, 1933. She was talented in the arts, received a scholarship to BYU and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Art. She sang alto concerto with the BYU Acapella Choir, and later with the Arizona Mormon Choir, and a quartet, The Harmonettes. She even performed as a nun in The Sound of Music at Gammage. Marlene lived most of her life in Tempe, where she and Ted raised their seven children. Marlene painted landscapes, temples, church history, and many murals. She was committed to church callings and spent many years with The Boy Scouts of America program, supporting her children and grandchildren to achieve Eagle Scout awards.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 13th, 2026, at 9am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 454 N. Crismon Rd. Mesa, AZ 85207, followed by a gravesite service at Mariposa Gardens. Marlene loved the Lord and declared him as her Savior. Her favorite scripture is found in John 14:2: “In my Father’s house are many mansions; I go to prepare a place for you.”

Marlene lived a life of faith, compassion, and service. She made people feel important and enjoyed giving gifts and compliments. Her greatest legacy was the love and devotion she gave to her family and will be greatly missed by all.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.