Jean (Rattey) Tanniehill of Helena, Montana, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 15, 2017 at the age of 80.
Jean was born to Lester and Rose Rattey, on September 22, 1936 south of Chinook, Montana in the small community of Ada in the Bear Paw Mountains. Born in a log cabin under assistance of a midwife, she was the second oldest of five children. She spent her early life cattle ranching with her parents and siblings in Ada, Harlem, and eventually the family ranch in Dodson, Montana.
Jean eventually ended up in Helena, Montana where she attended Carroll College and graduated with honors with a degree in psychology and sociology. As a tribal member of the Montana Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians, she was very active and involved in the Native American community. She worked hard her entire life and served on several boards throughout her tenure as a social worker in Helena. Jean was known for always being there to assist those in need with a smile and helping hand. She enjoyed racing cars, breaking broncs, playing cards, reading, gardening, quilting, and the outdoors. She truly loved and cherished her upbringing, family, and friends.
Jean is survived by eight of nine children she gave life to; Les (Floyce), Andy, Kari, Sandy (Ronnie), Cherei (Steve), Fawn (Larry), Roy “Jim” (Marlena), and Cindy (Tim). She is survived by two siblings; brother Joe and sister Lois, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents Lester and Rose, sister Janet, brother Harvey, daughter Myrna, and infant granddaughter Kaylena.
A Funeral Liturgy will be at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 22, 2017 at 2:00pm at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. Burial with her beloved husband Ed will follow at Forestvale Cemetery. The family is grateful for the condolences. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Carroll College Impact Annual Fund, Development Office, Carroll College, 1601 Benton Ave, Helena, MT 59625-0002 or at https://www.carroll.edu/ways-give/impact-annual-fund.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Jean.
Tommie Randolph says
It was an honor to care for Jean.
RONDA M DAVIS says
Fawn, Jimmy, and Cindy…so sorry for your loss..Jean was a friend to me, and to my mom..Ronda Sewell-Davis
Leo and Luci Dutton says
We extend our deepest condolences for your loss, Roy, Marlena and the whole family.
Becky A McLaughlin says
So sad and sorry for your loss. We hope all the happiest memories heal your heart. Thinking of you and your entire family. Love and prayers, the McLaughlin family.
Becky A McLaughlin says
Love and prayers
Carol Bridge says
MANY BLESSINGS TO YOUR FAMILY. JEAN WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON, QUIET BUT GENUINE. I ENJOYED HER AS A NEIGHBOR. MAY ALL YOUR MEMORIES STAY IN YOUR HEART FOREVER.
Cherei McCarter says
Mother’s Garden
My Mother kept a garden,
a garden of the heart,
She planted all the good things
that gave my life it’s start.
She turned me to the sunshine
and encouraged me to dream,
Fostering and nurturing
the seeds of self-esteem…
And when the winds and rain came,
she protected me enough–
But not too much because she knew
I’d need to stand up strong and tough.
Her constant good example
always taught me right from wrong–
Markers for my pathway
that will last a lifetime long.
I am my Mother’s garden.
I am her legacy-
And I hope today she feels the love
reflected back from me
Author unknown