Judith Jensen Mellen

Judith Jensen Mellen, affectionately known as Judi, was born on April 12, 1940, in Salt Lake City, Utah to Wallace L. Jensen and Kate Christensen Jensen. She gracefully departed this life on February 3, 2025, in Brigham City, Utah, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to family, community, and her many passions.

Judi's professional journey began at the young age of 14 when she took her first job at the Utah Theatre where she met the love of her life Doyle Dean Mellen. They were married in Elko, Nevada on 2/28/59 and later sealed in the Bountiful Temple on 4/14/12. In her words “He Always Took My Breath Away”.

Throughout her career, she embraced various roles, including her work for an eye and foot doctor, and she was a valued employee at the Federal Reserve Bank in Salt Lake City, First Security Bank in Mountain Home, Idaho, Wilson Motors in Mountain Home, Idaho, Box Elder County Bank, First Interstate Bank, and Wells Fargo in Brigham City. Judi eventually joined her family business, Mellen Glass, continuing her commitment to hard work and community service.

A proud graduate of South High School in Salt Lake City in 1958, Judi recognized the importance of education and was a lifelong learner. Her commitment to personal growth was mirrored in her dedication to her community as well; she served diligently in various capacities, including past president of the Ladies Commercial Bowling League, B.C.F.D. Auxiliary, Women in Business, and the Chamber of Commerce.

Judi's profound love for her family was one of her most cherished aspects of life. She was blessed with four children whom she adored deeply. Judi embraced her children's partners with open arms and found immense joy in her grandchildren, who brought light and laughter into her life. As they grew up, her grandchildren were not only her loved ones but also her playmates. Witnessing her great-grandchildren grow was a source of great happiness for her.

In addition to her devotion to family, Judi had a passion for music that played a significant role in her life. She was an active member of the LDS Church, dedicating her time to church music programs, where she influenced many through her performances in Primary, Junior Sunday School, Mutual, and Relief Society. Her talent was evident from her early years when she sang with the Melo-Tones sextette during junior high and high school, captivating audiences throughout Salt Lake City and beyond, including performances for KALL Radio and at Saltair. Judi cherished the moments spent singing with her daughters, especially when accompanied by her son, Doug on the guitar. The loss of her singing voice was a deeply saddening moment for her, as music was a profound part of her identity.

Judith Jensen Mellen will be remembered for her unwavering love, dedication to her family, and passion for music and community service. Her spirit and kindness touched the lives of many, and her legacy will live on through the lives of those she loved and inspired.

 Judi was preceded in death by her parents, husband Dean Mellen, son Doug Mellen, son-in-law Rich VanDyke, and her loving sister Pat Walker and Pat’s husband Bob Walker.

 She is survived by daughter’s Shari VanDyke, Pam Gailey (Dennis), Julie Gailey (Chuck), daughter-in-law Jeanine Mellen, 11 Grandchildren, 27 Great Grandchildren, and 2 Great Great Grandchildren.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 10-12pm at Gillies Funeral Chapel, 634 E 200 S, Brigham City, Utah. A graveside service will follow at the Brigham City Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at The Eagles directly after. 

The family would like to thank Gable’s Assisted Living for their care and compassion over the last 5 years. She made so many friends there and cherished each and every one of you. It truly takes special people to unwaveringly give the care you have given to our precious Mother. We would also like to thank Aegis Hospice and Home Health for everything they have done for Mom. Especially Jody Jensen…we couldn’t have done this without you. You are all loved. 

Leave condolences at www.gilliesmortuary.com

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