Jean McPhie

Varua Jean McPhie, lovingly known as Jean, was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose joyful spirit and unwavering love touched all who knew her. She peacefully passed away on August 6, 2026, surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, faith, and unconditional love.

Jean was born on January 6, 1946, in Logan, Utah to John and Varua Schiess. She adored her parents and treasured the close relationships she shared with her brothers and sisters throughout her life. Family was always at the center of Jean’s heart.

On July 22, 1966 Jean married the love of her life, Darwin “Speed” McPhie. Together they celebrated more than 60 years of marriage. They were blessed with four children: Tonya, Mic, Heather, and Jason. Being a mother was the only thing Jean knew she wanted to be from a young age, and she embraced that calling with her whole heart.

Known by many as “Jolly Jean”, she had an infectious laugh, a smile that came easy, and a gift for finding joy in every circumstance. No matter what life placed before her, she chose optimism, gratitude, and love. Life gave her reasons to become bitter, but instead she became stronger. She became kinder. She continued to love. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcome. Whether you were family, a lifelong friend, or someone she had just met, Jean made you feel like you belonged. She loved visiting with friends, sharing stories, and filling every room with warmth and laughter. She was always the life of the party.

Jean possessed remarkable strength and resilience. When her son Jason was just 16 years old, a tragic ski accident left him quadriplegic. Together, Jean and Speed lovingly cared for Jason for the next 14 years until he passed in 2008. Their tireless devotion and selfless love were a beautiful example of unwavering commitment to family.

Jean found tremendous joy in being a grandmother and great-grandmother. Nothing made her happier than gathering with her family, celebrating holidays, and spending time with those she loved.

She also found joy in serving others. Jean was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she especially loved serving with the Young Women.

Music was one of Jean’s greatest talents and lifelong passions. She was a gifted accordion player which she began playing at the age of 10. She loved singing alongside her mother and sisters at programs and funerals. She treasured sharing her talents to comfort and lift others.

Jean also loved working at Brunson’s Colonial Mansion and Bob’s Gas & Groceries, where her friendly smile and cheerful personality brightened the days of both coworkers and customers. She never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to turn everyday conversations into lasting friendships.

Those who knew Jean also knew she had a soft spot for Bluebird chocolates. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: a sweet treat, baking her famous fudge, a lunch date with friends, a holiday celebration, or a family gathering.

Jean is survived by her beloved husband of more than 60 years, Darwin “Speed” McPhie; her children, Tonya McPhie Houston, Mic Sampson (Justin), and Heather McPhie; her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her siblings, Kennard Schiess of Grace, ID, Don Schiess of Idaho Falls, ID, and Janice Mulder (Peter) of Nibley, UT; her sister-in-law, Sheri Schiess of Nibley, UT; and countless extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Jason; her parents, John and Varua Schiess; and her siblings, Catherine Hansen, and Boyd Schiess.

To know Jean was to love her, and to be loved by her was a gift. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to everyone who loved, supported, and cared for Jean throughout her life. A special thank you is extended to Intermountain Hospice Team, especially to Kellianne, Annie, and Hannah, for their compassionate care and unwavering support to Jean and the family over the past year.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Thursday, August 13 at the Nibley Stake Center, 3701 South 450 West in Nibley, Utah. A viewing will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM Wednesday, August 12th at White Pine Funeral Home, 753 South 100 East in Logan and from 10:00-11:30 AM, Thursday August 13, at the Nibley Stake Center prior to the funeral.

Click the following link to view funeral service live via ZOOM: Zoom Link