Fern Marlene Johnson Smith

Fern Marlene Johnson Smith was born March 30, 1935 in Ephraim, Utah in Sanpete County. Fern was the first born child of Wanda Winget and Evan R. Johnson followed by her younger brother Bendt Winget Johnson 1 year later. Eight years following Mom's birth she would gain her final sibling. A second girl in the Johnson family, Gayle J. Johnson Mellor, a total of 3 children.

As Fern grew up she would attend Snow College and became active in Student Government where she was voted in as secretary and treasurer for the institution. Fern was also chosen as a cheerleader which she would find helpful as a mother, both yelling for (and sometimes at) her 5 children. She would be placed as the 5th of 6 Homecoming Queen candidates of Ephraim and 6 surrounding city school candidates. She was also a runner-up for the Ephraim Sweetheart Ball.

While at Snow she was the date of 2 couples on a double date. Fern had her eye on her friend's double date. Enter one Richard "Terry" Smith. These two would soon be separated by events taking place in Korea (the Korean War) stationed in Germany, and 1 week prior to his flight/entry into the conflict, the war ended in late July of 1953. The alternative flight sent him home to the states. New York in particular where his parents Merrill and Bertie brought a surprise waiting for him in the Big Apple. Fern had come along and we have a great picture of the couple in front of the Statue of Liberty.

Terry made many, many trips to Ephraim while attending Utah State and Fern's younger sister Gayle was a bit smitten with the college track star (she was now around an 11 year old girl). Shortly there after the happy couple married in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints temple in Manti, Utah on August 8th, 1955.

Fern would become well known for her service to her family and faith. A mother to 5 children, Leslie, Julie, Jeff, Evan and Debbie. Many, many a year did she sacrifice of herself and for others, following the example of her savior and redeemer, Jesus Christ.

Fern passed away peacefully at her care center with her eldest daughter Leslie at her side on May 27th, 2026. She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.