April 25, 1923 ~ March 21, 2021
Sarah Marie Church Finlinson, age 97, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 21, 2021, surrounded by her loving family.
Sarah Marie was born on April 25, 1923 in Oasis, Utah to George N. and Sarah Shakespeare Church, the ninth of twelve children. She married her loving husband, Leo Lyman Finlinson on September 12, 1941, in the Manti LDS Temple. They enjoyed 54 loving years together until his passing on January 25, 1995.
Together Sarah and Lyman raised eight children in their family home in Oak City, Utah. A home that was filled with an abundance of love, humor and music. Through their example, their children were taught a strong work ethic, compassion, kindness and an acceptance of all people.
Sarah was a kind, caring person, always willing to provide a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and had an innate ability to make everyone feel special.
She was an excellent homemaker, baker and chocolatier–offering food or treats within minutes of people entering her home. She made countless quilts for her family and spent many hours crocheting and reading.
Sarah was an avid jogger well into her eighties. She loved music and was the first one to break into a jig when she heard a jazzy tune. She loved spicy food, high heels, Diet Pepsi, and fine chocolates.
Coming from and marrying into a large family, through the years, she eventually became the last leaf on the tree. Sometimes the most beautiful leaves are the last to fall.
To try and summarize her extraordinary life has been a daunting task. For her family and those of you who were lucky enough to know her, the lifetime of memories she gave us will be forever cherished. Sarah's legacy will live on.
Sarah's family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Alan Smith and the staff of the Millard County Care Center for the loving care and friendship they provided her over the last year.
Sarah is survived by her children: Marie (Robert) Siciliano, Salt Lake City, Utah; Sylvia (John) Stevens, Orem, Utah; Sara (Tom) Suwyn, Oak City, Utah; Robyn (Milt) Mayhew, St. George, Utah; Joe (Trudy) Finlinson, Orem, Utah; Meladee (Mark) Maggos, Godfrey, Illinois. Son-in-law, Doug Smith, Sutherland, Utah; 16 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren
She was preceded in death by her children: Kathy Finlinson Smith, Mason Finlinson; granddaughter, Marcy Smith; great-grandson, Abram Perrill.
Graveside services will be held at the Oak City Cemetery on Saturday, March 27, 2021, at 12 p.m. Masks and social distancing guidelines will be observed. Online condolences can be offered at www.olpinstevensfuneralhome.com.
