Pauline Louise Bidwell Blad

Pauline Louise Bidwell Blad, loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and faithful disciple of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully in her home on January 6, 2026 in Preston, Idaho surrounded by her husband and children.

Pauline was born on July 1, 1946, in Boise, Idaho. She grew up in Idaho and Washington state and was a country girl at heart, often talking about the horses she rode growing up.

After meeting at BYU, she and her husband, Carl DeVon, were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity on September 2, 1965. They recently celebrated 60 years of marriage. They raised their family in Ephraim, Utah and Enumclaw, Washington before moving to Preston nearly 4 years ago.

She is survived by her beloved husband, DeVon Blad, and her six children: Paul, Scottie, Dale, Janine, Davey, and Arianne (Annie), as well as 30 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren (with 2 more on the way), each of whom she cherished deeply, as well as many unofficially adopted children whom she loved as her own.

She lived a life marked by faith, quiet strength, and deep devotion to her family. As a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 15 years old, she loved the gospel and sought to follow the Savior through service, compassion, and enduring faith. Her testimony was evident not only in her words, but in the way she lived her life each day.

She was a devoted mother and wife to her family, whom she loved dearly and supported unconditionally. Her family was her greatest joy. Her love, example, and influence will continue to be felt for generations.

Pauline loved to read and learn, and was often found with several books surrounding her, marked with parts she loved. She loved to read to her grandkids and tell them stories. Her mischievous sense of humor always kept them entertained and laughing. She found great joy in spending time with them, and making each one feel loved and special.

She had a passion for bright, cheery flowers and loved teaching her daughters how to plant and grow their flower pots. She loved travel, nature, and animals. Especially her beloved Baby cat. She was a proud patriot and had a deep love for her country, with a large picture of George Washington kneeling in prayer in the entryway of her home.

Music was a large part of Pauline’s life and her beautiful soul, directing Christmas and Easter cantata’s and her beloved church choirs, as well as singing in various choirs for well over 40 years.

In her last days, Pauline spent her time surrounded by all her family and comforted each one, reassuring them that we will see her again. While her passing leaves an empty place in our hearts, we find comfort in the promises of the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ and the knowledge that families can be together forever. Her life was a blessing, and her legacy of faith and love will endure.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 11am at the Preston Idaho East Stake Center, 310 N. State, Preston, Idaho. Viewings will be held Thursday from 6-8 pm and again Friday from 9:30-10:30 am. at the church. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at webbmortuary.com

Services will be streamed live and can be viewed on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 11 am (MST) by clicking on the following link:

https://youtube.com/live/n9ViEQBMA4A?feature=share