Venace Oakey Bird

Venace Oakey Bird, born June 21, 1947, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2023, at her home in South Jordan, Utah. She was born and raised in Springville, Utah, to Glen Shipton Oakey and La Ree (Olsen) Oakey. Venace was the oldest of her 6 siblings, 4 boys, Bert, Steven, Danny, Dale, and 2 sisters, Kaylene, and Marjorie. 

Venace loved her mother very much and often told stories and fond memories she had with her. Her mother was a great seamstress and made most of her clothes and even the dress that she wore at her wedding. 

While in Springville she met the love of her life, David Brent Bird, and they went on to get married and sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. From there they went on to have 4 beautiful girls, Janilyn Strom (Robert Strom), Jenifer Bird, Melinda Bird, and Miranda Gibson (Clint Gibson). Her marriage, however, was short-lived as she lost her husband, tragically, in a plane crash.  

Venace was blessed with 6 grandchildren, Derick Bird (Rosie Bird), Tryston Spencer (Miranda Spencer), Alyxandria Roche, Caleb, Zachary and Andrew Gibson, and 2 great grandchildren, Elijah, and Koleton Bird. 

Venace was an avid bowler in her younger years and competed in many national tournaments with great success. She loved to golf, and in her later years, spent much of her time watching golf and basketball on television. She was a loyal Jazz fan and never missed an opportunity to watch their games.  

Venace loved whenever family would visit and often bragged about how proud she was of each of them. During the latter part of her life, she was looked after by her family and loving neighbors, Mary Beth, Lee, and Georgina. She often spoke about how grateful she was for each of them and all they did for her. 

She will be sorely missed by her family, friends, and her best friend, her dog, Lilly. We all know that she is in a better place with her mother, La Ree, and brother, Dale, whom she missed very dearly, and we are excited for their reunion in the afterlife. 

We will always love you, and will cherish the time, and memories we have had with you. May you rest in peace knowing how much we all look forward to seeing you again. 

Funeral services will be held Friday, November 10th, from 12:00 – 1:00 at Wheeler Mortuary located at 211 East 200 South in Springville, Utah. Followed by a luncheon from 1:30-3:00 at the ward house located on 950 S. 1700 E. St. in Springville. 

Due to the holiday, graveside services will be held, Monday, November 13th, from 1:00 to 2:00 at Springville City Cemetery located on 400 S. 200 W.  

In honor of Venace if you would like to wear something yellow, since it was her favorite color, please feel free to do so. 

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to donate any money to help with funeral costs that would be greatly appreciated. 

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.