Marilyn Madsen Reynolds

Marilyn Lenore Madsen Reynolds

1930-2025

Murray, Utah-Marilyn Lenore Madsen Reynolds was the first child born to Earl Soren Madsen and Thelma Chinn Madsen on August 7, 1930. She then became the loving and caring big sister to Ronnie, Jackie, and Marie.

As a child she was fun loving, strong willed, a prankster at times and had an amazing enthusiasm for life, all which never changed. At a young age she was spoiled by her Grandma Britta, they were partners in exploring new adventures, anything fun and new that came along. They rode the open aired railway to Saltair where the kids got into mischief while the adults played cards. They attended the dance marathons, as spectators, at the Rainbow Ballroom, and they took an airplane ride over the city, just to name a few of their escapades.

When WWII broke out Marilyn was 11 and just old enough to realize the seriousness of how life changing it was. Many of her uncles went to war and she kept a scrapbook of newspaper articles telling of their experiences and sometimes their deaths. She recalled the rationing of food and many other items. Her Grandpa Sam gave up his 'shoe coupons' to Marilyn and her siblings because they grew out of theirs and he didn't. They were always so grateful that her Dad was able to keep his job during those hardships, they became frugal and very appreciative of what they had. This was the beginning of our Mom's extreme patriotism that never wavered throughout her life. She taught her children resolute respect and loyalty for our country and wouldn't tolerate anything less.

At the age of 16 she met Douglas Reynolds while working at the New England Bakery. They married and began a wonderful life together that lasted for the next 76 years. Doug took up spoiling Marilyn where Grandma Britta left off. Her happiness was his priority and he wouldn't mind that we told you so! They were young parents and grew up together with their six children.

While living in Kansas, Dad would pile us kids in the old woody station wagon on Sundays and we would go out to the country where Mom would get her driving lessons. After getting her driver's license, Dad made sure from then on, that she always had a classy car to drive.

She was a devoted wife and mother, loved us deeply, and always stood by us, right or wrong. She became a 'sassy' fun loving grandma and all the grandkids have a fond memory or fun story to tell about her. They adored her and she was so proud of them and loved them dearly.

In their later years, Dad and Mom spent most winters at their get-away in San Carlos, Mexico. Mom loved beach combing and collecting sea shells and by collecting, we mean hoarding. We've just discovered that she had a sea shell Room in the basement! She was in her element there, hosting parties and get togethers with new friends and exploring new places.

She belonged to the Guymas chapter of 'Las Madrinas' or 'Godmothers of the Orphans'. They supported an orphanage there with food, toys, gifts and Christmas parties. The members collectively wrote a cookbook, sold copies and the proceeds went to the orphanage. It was her nature to give to the less fortunate.

Marilyn enjoyed the 'cocktail hour' to the end and was known for her 'killer' margaritas. Let's share a toast to her and her wonderful contributions to our lives. We're all better people, in some way, because of her.

"To you, our Mama, Grandma, Sister, Aunt and friend. We love you, Thank you, Rest peacefully."

Survived by; her brother Jack Madsen (Tamra), her sister Marie Thomson, her children, Lawny Hunt, Lorraine Reynolds, Douglas M Reynolds, Priscilla Mann (Gary) and Amy Reynolds. Eleven grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren, five great- great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her devoted husband Douglas, her precious daughter Christine, and beloved brother Ronnie.

Private family services will occur.