Jaclyn Kay May, “Jackie,” 31 years old, was born in Helena, Montana on December 29, 1989 to Ted Polette and Jill Myhre, and joined her heavenly Father on February 8, 2021 in Jefferson City, Montana.
Jackie was raised in Helena, Montana and enjoyed any activity with her family and friends. Riding bikes, playing board games, traveling, roller-blading, watching movies, eating cookie dough, hiking, backpacking, swimming, boating, skiing, and camping, to name a few. These hobbies followed her into adulthood and shaped her passion for life.
Jackie graduated from Capital High School in 2008. Jackie was a student-athlete graduating with cum laude honors. She excelled in volleyball as a setter, garnishing second team all-state honors as a sophomore and first team all-state her junior and senior years. She led her team with heart and enthusiasm, always smiling and uplifting her teammates. It wasn’t always winning that meant the most to her but ensuring that everyone had fun during competition. Jackie still holds records at CHS for assists and serving. She was a stellar athlete who played humbly with great sportsmanship, enthusiastically encouraging her teammates and even her greatest competitors. Those competitors would later become her best friends and teammates down the road. Jackie was inspired by her biggest role model, and older sister, Katie, who taught her leadership and positivity. Jackie was also a bad-ass pole vaulter who traveled to Indianapolis to compete in the National Track & Field Championships. She was always up for a challenge and strived to beat her personal record of 13 pull-ups, intimidating many boys. Jackie’s dedication and hard work was also mirrored throughout her academic career. She had an aptitude for math so much so that her twin sister, Sara, convinced her to take a math test for her junior year. Although she had the book smarts, she slipped up and wrote her name on Sara’s test giving away their secret mission and creating one of many unforgettable twin memories together. Much to their boyfriends’ dismay, they also got a kick out of switching places and playing pranks on their boyfriends.
Jaclyn continued her education at Oregon Institute of Technology earning her Bachelor’s of Science in Cardiac Sonography in 2013. During her time at OIT, Jaclyn was an integral part of the volleyball team and enjoyed joining Sara on trips with the Outdoor Program traveling around Oregon, Washington, and California. Skydiving in Lodi, CA was one of her all-time favorites. She created lifelong friendships with many college teammates and friends. Over the years following graduation, Jackie made numerous trips back to Oregon to visit her irreplaceable friends. She continued to treasure and nurture their relationships when she was home in Montana despite the physical distance between them and the same went for her “Montana friendships” while she was in Oregon. During the summer of 2010, Jaclyn met and fell in love with Ethan May. They were later married August 17, 2013. Their son McCoy was born February 23, 2017. Jaclyn was the most dedicated and loving mother to McCoy, taking him on many outdoor adventures including trips to Seeley Lake, hiking, catching turtles, fishing and hunting. Jaclyn also loved to bake, read and play games with McCoy.
Jaclyn worked as a Cardiac Sonographer at St. Pete’s Health and the Helena VA Hospital. Connecting with her patients and providing compassionate, personalized care came easily to her. She had many patients who she shared her strong faith with and connected with on a spiritual level as well. Jaclyn truly was a vessel of God’s love and imparted that upon everyone she encountered. Family was of the utmost importance to her throughout her entire life and she ensured that each member knew just how much she loved them.
Jaclyn is survived by her son McCoy, her father Ted Polette (Ronna), mother Jill Myhre, sisters Katie Samson (Marc) and Sara Sullivan (Kellen), niece Kayley, and nephews AJ and Gavin, Grandmother Mary Jane Romick, and the Pfister families and Evelo family.
Viewing will be from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a funeral service to begin at 1 p.m. on Monday, February 15th at Mount Helena Community Church, 1710 National Avenue. A reception will follow the service in the social hall at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. Burial will take place at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, February 17th at Forestvale Cemetery. Memorials in Jackie’s honor may be made to Valley Bank c/o Ethan May and McCoy May or to https://www.ugift529.com/home.html Ugift code: 27Y-P8P for those interested in making a donation for McCoy’s future education.
Service Schedule
Viewing
11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Monday February 15, 2021
Mount Helena Community Church
1710 National Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Monday February 15, 2021
Mount Helena Community Church
1710 National Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Monday February 15, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
2:00 p.m.
Wednesday February 17, 2021
Forestvale Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Viewing
11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Monday February 15, 2021
Mount Helena Community Church
1710 National Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Monday February 15, 2021
Mount Helena Community Church
1710 National Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Monday February 15, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
2:00 p.m.
Wednesday February 17, 2021
Forestvale Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
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Cheryl Cornish says
Our hearts go out to Jaclyn’s family! You are in our thoughts, our hearts and our prayers! God’s strength and comfort to you! Bill and Cheryl Cornish
Dawn & Steve Larson says
Jackie visited us in Alaska in summer 2019 along with Jenna and our daughter Sierra. We saw such strength of character in Jackie combined with the desire to really find peace from the turmoil of life. There was much laughter, many tears of both joy and sadness. God allowed my husband and I to bless and love those 3 precious friends during their week with us. Jackie loved Jesus ♥ Jesus loved Jackie. I will forever be grateful for The Polette family loving and accepting our daughter Sierra as one of their own. My heart is so very sad at the loss of a beautiful daughter, sister, mother, auntie, friend, young woman of God. We pray comfort for the family. We know that she was loved by all that knew her. All that knew her will find healing and comfort by keeping her memory alive.
Dawn F says
Jackie was a beautiful soul with an infectious smile!! I was blessed to have known her. Such an inspirational woman. Jackie you will be missed.
Blaine Palmquist says
Dear Ted and Family,
So sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter Jackie. May you in time find Gods peace.
Karen Wang says
Jill, Our thoughts and many prayers go out to you and your family. Please know we mourn with you. God Bless.
Jerome and Ronnie says
To the Polette and May famlies; Ronnie and I were very sorry to hear about your lose. May God be with you during this time of grief. We will be praying for you. God Bless.
SharonBowker says
Jill and family…..prayers for comfort at this saddest of times.
Samantha Clark (Songer) says
Words could not describe Jackie, she was a ray of sunshine to all. She welcomed me as I was new to Capital High School and as we were track and Simplot buddies. Going to your house at lunch time to laughing when you and Sara had a numb mouth from the dentist and Ice cream and crab legs when we went to Reno. Rest east sweet girl and go walk with god till we all get there.
Always your friend ❤️ Sammie
Tom and Colette Strizich says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of this amazing young woman.
Randy and Cindy McGinnis says
I cannot find the words to express how very sorry we are at the loss of Jackie. No parent should have to experience this. Jackie was such a bright light in this world, and her presence just made you want to smile and hug her! She was an instrumental part of our daughter’s love of volleyball and her growth in the sport. My heart aches for all of you and for the sparkle that this world has lost. May the pain that you experience ultimately blossom into something beautiful in your hearts. “First the pain, then the rising.” Sending lots of love and blessings your way as you navigate through your grief.
Colleen Murphy says
Dear Ted and family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you during this painful time. Sending peace.
Brad & Robie Culver says
Ted and family, there are no words that can express the sorrow you are going through right now. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Linda Pfister says
Jackie and I became close when she would do my heart scans at St. Pete’s. We found it so easy to visit. At other occasions, we talked about her faith and how it brought her peace. Infectious smile is absolutely true! She was my jitter bug partner at Matt’s wedding, and I loved seeing her have so much fun in Hawaii. It was so great that she loved the outdoors like she did. I loved her passion. We always had a hug for one another and I will miss her. Rex and I have your entire family in our hearts and prayers.
Casey and Kelley Gobbs says
McCoy, Sara, Katie, Jill, and Ted: I’m sure the pain you are feeling is unbearable. We are praying God will grant you the peace you need right now, to get through this time and begin healing. Rest in knowing Jackie left such a legacy and huge impact on anyone who knew her. I’ve known her for almost 24 years and will never forget one of my memories with her. Her laughter and smile is unforgettable and so contagious. Hold on to those memories and knowing what a wonderful mother, sister, daughter, and friend she was. My heart breaks for all of you. Our deepest sympathy for you all.
Vanessa says
I am so very sorry to hear of Jackie’s passing. I met her when she worked at the VA. Always joyful, contagiously so! Always with a smile. Thinking of all who loved her
Winter DeMers says
I’m am so sorry for your loss. From the DeMers family
Carol & Dick Paulsen says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. From the Paulsen family
Ken and Margaret Pollington says
Ted,Jill,Katie,Sara and family: We are so sorry for your great loss. Our heart and prayers are with you during this time of sadness. Pollington family
Karin Hughes says
I am so sadden to hear of loosing Jackie. She was my daughters’ baby sitter in Klamath Falls, we are all heartbroken. Jackie will remain in our hearts and minds forever, beautiful and full of life. Sending our love and prayers to you all.
Karin, Michael Hughes, Faith Ann and Bethany Brookshire
Scott says
So very sorry for the loss of Jaclyn A precious gift to everyone who knew her May the Lord help you find comfort
Shirley Chesterfield-Stanton says
Ted, Jill, Sara, Katie. I’m so sorry for your and our loss as Jackie will be missed by so many. Her smile was infectious. She was a wonderful person. My heart aches for your family. Love to all of you.
Shirley Chesterfield-Stanton and Paul
Ali Tappe says
Thinking of everyone during this devastating time. I remember going to the hospital for a cardio appointment. I was quiet nervous and the Jackie came out the door, gave me the biggest hug and suddenly everything was ok. We would always have a chat when we caught each other walking, as she lived in the neighborhood down from my folks. She will always be in my heart and I still remained stunned. I send my deepest love to all touched by this loss. Xoxo
Melinda Magill says
I was honored and blessed to know Jackie through teaching with her father for 14 years. My daughters played volleyball with Jackie in High School and Ashley, against her in college. They, as well as I, adored her. Jackie always had a smile on her face that would brighten up any room she entered. Her friendly and optimistic personality was contagious. I was able to get to know Jackie more personally during the morning hours at Crossroads after workouts. She is truly such a beautiful girl, inside and out. I know this statement can be over-used, but it was true with Jackie. She cared about people and was genuinely interested in the lives of others. The biggest impact Jackie had on me was her love for her family and her amazing bond with Sara. When you saw the two together, you saw love and friendship at the deepest level. They adored each other. You are loved and will be missed Jackie. Our loss here on earth is great, but heaven’s gain is greater. We are praying for you, Ted, Ronna, Katie, Sara , Jill and the rest of the family. If my heart hurts as it does, I can’t even imagine your pain. I pray God will comfort you all and wrap his loving arms around you every moment of every day. Our blessed Hope is our assurance that we will see Jackie again and there, we will rejoice and celebrate together.
Gina Zapata says
Sweet Jackie,
Putting to words the light you’ve been in my life is impossible. You’ve been a steadfast and loyal friend since elementary school and your love has carried me through countless hard times.
You are my sister by choice instead of blood. So many others feel the same way. You had that ability to connect on such a deep level.
You always hugged like you had to make that hug stretch to last until the next time you saw them.
You had a knack for sharing the best one liners, a trait you inherited from your dad. I wish I had your mental capacity to store them and whip them out at the perfect moment. There is a saying on my kitchen wall that I chose solely because it was a favorite of yours. “Today I will be happier than a bird with a French fry.” You had a lot of lines about being happy. “Happier than a fly on a turd.” “Smiling like a hanger is in my mouth.” You radiated joy.
You held yourself to the highest standard. In your studies, sports, career, and as a mommy. You strived to be your personal best and you did it so seamlessly.
You made fast friends with anyone and everyone. You could connect with people in a way that was effortless and genuine.
Your laugh didn’t just come from your voice box, your whole body moved with it.
You were full of enough mischief, that time together would always result in my ribs hurting from laughter the next day.
You put everyone before yourself. Last year you took Ava on a hike to Holland Lake. It was spur of the moment from the cabin and she didn’t bring winter hiking shoes. You wore her slip ons that were three sizes too small half way on your feet in a few inches of snow and gave her your boots.
You loved your son more than anything. You wanted to give him the best of everything. You tried so hard to be the best mommy imaginable, and you succeeded.
I haven’t touched on your outward beauty. You turned tables everywhere you went.
The total complete “package.”
To know you was to love you is the understatement of the century.
Thank you for being my BFF or my BBF. My life would’ve been much duller without you in it. You’ve given me a lifetime of memories that are imprinted on my heart and will be cherished forever. I love you Jack TROF 😘
Jennika Green says
You were the best in middle school and high school. I cannot believe you are gone. You were the best friend/sister ever Jackie May. You are going to be truely missed by family and friends. We truely miss you like crazy.
Naomi Miller says
My deepest sympathy to her family. We are so sorry for your loss. Blessings,Naomi and Paul Miller
Linda Huso says
I didnt get to know Jackie but sounds like she was a brillant young lady and sweet like
her mother Jill. So very sorry for your loss. May precious memories bring her family
comfort during this very sad time.
Blessings,
Linda Huso
Angela & Owen Brown says
Our hearts are so very sad at the loss of a beautiful daughter, sister, mother, and a special friend to so many. We pray for comfort and healing by keeping her memory alive.
Sweet Jackie, you are missed but will never be forgotten with so many cherished memories we hold of you💜💜
Susan Hoving says
I was very saddened & heartbroken to hear of Jackie’s passing. My heart goes out to each of you, in your time of sorrow. She is a great loss to all who knew her. May her soul rest in peace.
I remember meeting Jackie, Sara, Kellen, Erik, many more, after we moved from Townsend to Helena, my son, Charlie, had the best friends from middle school to high school, to present. The circle of friendship that this group had, is priceless. Some went away to college, but never lost touch of one another & then some, ended up, “moving back home”. I just recently went through some photos that were packed away (before my move back here in July). The sports, the proms, that all went together, most as a group & the fun they all had. I can see her beautiful smile & hear her laughter. She will be missed greatly, but her memories will live on through everyone she touched.
Know that all of her family are in my thoughts & Prayers. May God put her in a special place from where she will be watching all, especially over McCoy, the people who loved & cherished her.
May our Lord Bless & Comfort you & your family during this time of grief.
Please accept my sincere & deepest condolences.
Mike and Joanne Kauzlarich says
Our hearts are broken over the loss of Jackie. She was a gentle soul with a smile that lit up the whole room. I was reminded this morning of a Billy Graham quote, “ Someday you will hear that I have passed away, but don’t believe it for I am more alive than ever. I have only changed my address.” This could not be more true of Jackie. She knew her Savior and shared her love of God whenever she had the opportunity. We are blessed to have known her.
Sandra Wilkinson says
I’m so very sorry for the loss of such a beautiful, beautiful person. Jackie was a light in this world, she made everyone feel comfortable and welcomed. I’m so proud to be a part of her “Oregon “ family. She is gone too fast, but I’m so grateful for the short time I had her in my life. Go in peace sweet Jackie and know people loved you so very much!
Jim Martinson says
Ted and family – So sorry for your loss of such a special young lady. Memories will be cherished. Thanks for sharing a few.
Carol Will says
Such fond memories of our trip to Florida for the National Volleyball Tournament. The Body by Milk picture that I posted makes me giggle when I think about the team slathering mayo on their upper lips to create the milk mustache for the photo.
Prayers of peace.
Mary Chronister says
Please accept my condolences, Jill. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Paul Stahl says
Jill, so very, very sorry. What a wonderful young woman. She has her mother’s smile. Thinking of you.
Colleen Richards says
We are praying for God’s overwhelming blessing for you. We, too, have lost an adult child and know the pain you’re experiencing. If you ever would like to talk to someone who “gets it” we’re available. Pastors Jeff and Colleen Richards
Kitty Wilson’s says
Ted and Family,
We will always remember Jaclyn’s infectious smile and the gleam in her eyes! It meant so much to have her at games and she always lifted those around her with her joy! Our hearts and prayers are with you all!
Kitty, Jeremie & Dakota Wilson
Gary A Mariegard says
Ted,
So sorry to hear. I am praying for you and your family in this time. Please contact me with anything at all I can do.
Jim and Sandy Rizza says
Ted,
Our hearts go out to you. May find peace with this soon.
Monica Bedwell says
Jill,
I don’t even know what to say. I will pray for God to help you through the coming days ahead.
Teri Wright says
Ted and family, I am truly saddened to hear of this devastating loss. My deepest sympathies go out to you all. It was a delight to watch Jackie compete – she had a great smile and an even greater laugh – she will be missed.
John and Diana Tavary says
Ted and Jill
John and I are just heart sick for your loss of your sweet daughter. We remember when both girls were still hanging out in Jill’s womb. Life is so fragile and valuable. Each day John and I discuss how sad we are for all your families. Please know we are praying for all of you. May the Peace of Yehovah cover you. John and Di
Julie Schultz says
I remember when the twins were born and how excited all the Clancy PE students were. To Jackie’s twin and to Mr. Polette and the rest of the family, I am sending love, since no words are adequate.
Anonymous says
Jackie, I will never forget the positive influence you had on me in the short time I knew you.
Late last summer I expressed some trouble I was having and in a short moment, you hugged me, an embrace I will never forget and told me it was all going to be okay. To be strong. To reach out to you, gave me your phone number and said if I needed I could reach out to you. I didn’t see you for a while and I regret not having more contact.
I was at your viewing and I looked at you with great sadness because I missed the girl who lit up the world when she walked in a room. Who played music all the time and God how you miss that upbeat sound when it’s not there.
I left your viewing and my greatest take away was envy.
I wished I didn’t have the burdens (past year) of life and felt so overwhelmed. Looked at you and thought what would she say to me for inspiration because so so many times I felt that I couldn’t survive. I came up with nothing because I am still drowning in depression and trying to get by. On the inside. No one really knows that on the whole.
Please, please, all I can ask of anyone reading is put aside a minute two of your life and really listen to someone who is struggling . And mean it.
As a mother, and a realist, Jackie thank you for snapping my head up and wanting to try more than I have been. I owe you so much. For your gentleness and caring and just KNOWING. You kept (and keep) me afloat.
Always,
Me
Carol & Steve Athearn says
Steve, Brianne and I are so terribly sad to hear of Jackie’s passing. There is nothing that prepares you for the loss of a child. Jeff and Colleen Richards were so helpful to us after Jesse passed away, even through their own suffering.. Reach out for help, those that have been through this terrible loss will understand what you’re going through. Our love and prayers to you and your family.
Melanie & Joe Ruby says
Ted & Ronna, and families, we are so terribly sorry for your loss of Jackie. She sounds like an incredible person, we know the pain you must be feeling. Katie just checked Joe out of SurgiCenter on the 4th after his colonoscopy, was so very pleasant to us, and remarked that her parents lived on our same street. Our deepest sympathy and our thoughts are with you at this time, please let us know if we can help you in any way, we are a few doors away.
Paul J Mousseau says
May God’s mercy shine upon her. I only met her once. I was in St. Pete’s for some health issues. She was doing her technician thing and she was talking about going to OIT. She lived about 2 blocks from where my mom lives. What a small wonderful world. I am saddened by her passing. She made me happy thinking about my growing up years.
Kristin Mullen says
Dear Mr. Polette and family, I am so sorry to hear of your daughter’s/sister’s/mother’s/friend’s passing. While I didn’t know her personally, her vim still shines through all of the beautiful comments. Thinking of you all during this most difficult time, for all of us. Much love to you all.
Annie Tavary says
Dear May and Polette Families,
Holy shit! I don’t even know what to say, and I cannot imagine what you are feeling.
Please know, I am praying for each of you, and I am wrapping you in my love.
Take as much time as you need to grieve; there is no time limit.
Be gentle with yourselves.
All my love,
Annie
Me says
Jackie,
I miss you for a thousand reasons.
I love you so much.
-Me