Loretta J. Slocum, age 91, of Helena, passed away January 6, 2023.
Loretta Jean Deeter Slocum born May 7, 1931 to Oliver and Margaret Minaker Deeter in Port Townsend, WA. She attended schools in western Washington, graduating in 1951 from Snohomish High School.
Loretta met Harold in a sanatorium in Washington when they both suffered with TB for a few years. The nurses were matchmakers and soon the two fell in love and married in August 1951. They were married for 69 good years. They had two sons Steven and James and they moved to Montana in 1961 because their son Steve suffered with asthma and did well in Montana.
Loretta worked at the Office of Public Instruction for 6 1/2 years under Harriet Miller. She enjoyed many things including Church, quilting, crocheting, gardening, canning, camping, and traveling. She loved playing games with her family and she liked to win! They were faithful members to the Helena First Assembly Church and were instrumental in the growth and building of the church. She inspired us all with her courage and faith in God. She could always put a good lunch or dinner on the table if you stopped by and she always had something baked for friends and family who dropped in. The coffee was always on!
Loretta was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brothers Irvin, Richard, and Bernard Deeter.
Loretta is survived by her sisters Gladys Abitia and Rose Alsum (Jim) both of Washington and many nieces & nephews; her sons Steven (Sylvia), James (Wanda); four grandchildren Mark (Renee), Mardi, Avrie Stock (Rodney), Seth (Sarah); ten great grandchildren; and one great-great grandson.
She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Service Schedule
Viewing
10 a.m.
Friday January 13, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
11 a.m.
Friday January 13, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Friday January 13, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, MT 59602
Burial
Following the Reception
Friday January 13, 2023
Forestvale Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Viewing
10 a.m.
Friday January 13, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
11 a.m.
Friday January 13, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Friday January 13, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, MT 59602
Burial
Following the Reception
Friday January 13, 2023
Forestvale Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Share
Sandy Bradford says
Oh, how I will miss you – my neighbor of many years and even still at the BeeHive. Both you and Harold! What an incredible prayer warrior! I loved that we shared May birthdays. I am glad you are safely home.
Mardi Slocum says
Loretta’s life showed the rest of us what it meant to reflect God’s love. She always wanted to be of use to God [she was]. She didn’t tell you how to live or what you should do; she taught you by the way she lived.
Loretta and I were missing her husband Harold one day after he passed. We talked about how we were sad but we could find joy in knowing Harold believed in Jesus so we knew death could not have him [hallelujah]. Loretta said she wanted me to remember that joy when she passed and not be sad. I told her I would be sad; however, I would try to remember [that death couldn’t have her either]. Even in death, she was looking out for me [and every one else she loved].
I’m trying Grandma. I love and miss you.
Relinda Justice Lindgren says
What a dear, sweet lady. So sorry to see her go, yet happy to know she is rejoicing in Heaven and reunited with Harold. They were wonderful friends to my parents. Our families have so many terrific memories with both of them. Well done Loretta….well done!
Vince Justice says
We will miss Loretta dearly. She made so many contributions to our church family over the years. I am happy to know she is finally reunited with her Lord and with Harold and other family, she is no longer with us but we know where she is now !!!!
Sharon Flynn says
Dear Saint of God💖 Loretta always made you feel special and conveyed the love of God everywhere she went. I know the family will really miss her prayers and love go out to you family.
Lucy Richards says
My condolences to all the Slocums. I did not know Loretta but knowing her family and hearing many stories of her and Harold over the years made me smile. She raised and nurtured a great family. I’m sorry for your loss but glad you had so many great years with her.
Joanna Lund says
Got to know Harold and Loretta when we lived down the street from them. Kind, wonderful people. I remember Loretta giving me a recipe for apple crisp. Warm feelings.
Matt & Mary Kunnary says
Loretta & I worked together at the Superintendent of Public Instruction, which a few years back. I do remember her as a very nice person. Rest in peace, Loretta. God Bless you.