Merilee Francks Jardine

“She dances to the songs in her head, speaks with the rhythm of her heart, and loves from the depths of her soul.” ~Dean Jackson Poet

Merilee Francks Jardine, 50, passed away peacefully in her home with her dear husband by her side. Merilee fought for 9 long months after being diagnosed with a brain tumor in March 2020.

Merilee was born April 05, 1970 to LaVar and Sue Ann Francks in Mt. Pleasant, Utah. She was the fourth child of nine: Mike (Kathryn), Mikkie (Don), Matthew (Jo), Merilee (Todd), Mindee (Matt), Marshall (Jessica), Marcee (Chris), Mandon (Melinda) and McClain (Mallory).

On January 24, 2014 she married the love of her life, Todd Jardine. They brought together their 3 children, Blake, Tori (Kent) and Jordan to create their family. They had their beloved dog Malcolm. Being his mama brought her endless joy. Probably one of her most favorite roles was being Avery Jane and Carson Andrew’s Nana. In fact, one of her goals after diagnosis was to be around for the birth of Carson, which she was able to do.

Merilee’s life was filled with many proud moments, but none could compare to the day her son, Jordan, came into her life. He made her a mom, which is a title she held with more gratitude than any other. Jordan and Merilee weathered some incredible storms together, and she always said how thankful she was that she had Jordan by her side. Jordan and Merilee’s bond was unbreakable and she was so open about how thankful she was that he made her a mom.

Another of her favorite roles in life was that of Auntie. She leaves behind 21 nieces and 19 nephews, and countless “adopted” loves who she claimed ownership to. She strived to be the favorite aunt. And accomplished it with her love, fun, acceptance, and ability to make everyone feel like they were Her favorite.

Merilee was taught the valuable lesson of hard work as she worked along side her father on the turkey farm. She had a fondness for the elderly and some of her best friends were from the older generation. She took that work ethic and love of the elderly and she spent 25 years working hard for Rocky Mountain Home Care. She had many accomplishments during her years at RMHC. But the thing she was most proud of was how many lives she touched as a leader for this company. The people she worked with were the most important part of her work.

Unlike most of us who have a birth day, Merilee had a birth month, and spent all month celebrating. She loved a party and was all about dancing, laughing, playing, and fun. She loved celebrating holidays, going to concerts (any excuse to dance), sporting events, family and friend get-togethers. She was the life of the party, and the party didn’t start until she arrived.

When Merilee’s sister and family moved to Hawaii, Merilee made it a place she would often visit. Not only was her Ohana there, she fell in love with the island. She loved the beauty, the smells, the people, the culture and the feeling of Hawaii.

Merilee had a deep love of her Father in Heaven and Savior Jesus Christ. And she let that love guide her throughout her life. She believed in loving one another, forgiveness, and compassion for others. She lived by example and would give all she had to take care of those around her. This included her time. She spent many hours being with people in their most difficult moments. “Where you go, I will go. Where you stay, I will stay.” Ruth 1:16

We are so grateful to her beloved husband Todd for the endless care he has given Merilee during this time. He truly set aside his own needs to make sure Merilee had everything she needed. We also appreciate those from Rocky Mountain Hospice who assisted.

Merilee, Merl, Mern, Mernie, Merner, Mermaid, Sissy, she was our beloved daughter, wife, sister, aunt and friend and leaves behind so many people whose lives she touched, who she loved and loved her. She was preceded in death by her father, brother, niece, grandparents, parents in law, cousins and friends. We can only imagine the celebration happening as she returned home. And so she danced…dance, Merilee, dance.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 14, 2020 at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, where a viewing will be held Sunday evening from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. and again Monday morning from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. prior to services. Interment-Ephraim City Cemetery. Online guest book at www.russonmortuary.com. In light of the pandemic and keeping those in attendance safe, masks will be required along with social distancing. This will also limit the amount of people we can have in attendance.
Services will be live streamed on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/russonmortuary.