Adron Medley was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi on March 21st, 1937. He was the son of the late Mozelle and Ralph Medley and the grandson of Zina Adron and Sophronia Medley. Adron had a love of nature that began roaming the hillsides of his grandparent’s farm in Buffalo Valley, Tennessee, the source of his fondest childhood memories. In his youth, he was a voracious reader, expert marksman and accomplished trumpet player. Adron was blessed, as few children are, with knowing exactly what he wanted to be in life. He was to be a surgeon.
Drafted during the Vietnam War, Major Medley served two years in the Army, stationed in Okinawa caring for wounded servicemembers. During this time, he became an accomplished pilot and enjoyed flying for the rest of his life. At the completion of his tour, he moved his family west, settling on Helena in 1973. Dr. Medley served the greater Helena community as a general, thoracic, and vascular surgeon for many years. He also served the Cut Bank community practicing at Logan Health – Cut Bank. His children were often in awe of the appreciation strangers would express for him having saved a loved one or themselves.
Adron was a passionate conservationist. With his generosity and vision, and the help of the Prickly Pear Land Trust and city officials, the beloved trails and unblemished hillsides of Mt. Ascension Park are forever a gift to the Helena community.
Adron suffered from Alzheimer’s disease and succumbed to it peacefully and without pain on January 20, 2022. He is survived by his wife, Sara Medley, his sister, Alice Snelgrove, children, Mark, Lee, Bryce, Sara Leigh, and Shane, seven grandchildren and his beloved yellow lab, Sami.
The funeral service will be held at St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral in Helena on Friday, January 28th at 11:00 o’clock. A brief reception will follow in the church. The burial will proceed with full military honors at 2:00 o’clock the same day at the Montana State Veteran’s Cemetery – Fort Harrison, Helena.
The family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) or the Kate Foundation for Rett Syndrome Research, (https://www.katefoundation.org/donate).
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Friday January 28, 2022
St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial with Military Honors
2:00 pm
Friday January 28, 2022
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
1900 Heroes Road
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Reception
Directly Following The Funeral Service
Friday January 28, 2022
St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Friday January 28, 2022
St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial with Military Honors
2:00 pm
Friday January 28, 2022
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
1900 Heroes Road
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Reception
Directly Following The Funeral Service
Friday January 28, 2022
St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
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Tom Erving says
Sara, I am so sorry for your loss. Adron was such a fine person, husband, dad, grandfather and doctor. I remember when I first met him, he was in a three piece suit giving some dignitaries a tour of the hospital. My wife was in labor, our daughter was coming and a OB stat was announced over the loudspeaker. Adron came running in and delivered our baby girl. I told him we went to school together, he was so proud of you. Many years later we saw the both of you at church. and he remembered the delivery. A life well lived with memories that will last forever.
Your old friend and forever grateful for Adron, Tom and Debbie and Marcie (our baby).
Florence H Shaw says
RIP Dr. Medley.
Dudley Williams says
Sara , Sarah Lee, Shane, my sincerest condolence’s to you & the rest of the family. Adron, RIP .
Jane Piilola Piilola says
Sara – was so sorry to hear this. Adron was one of my favorites at the Foundation. I was so grateful to him for taking are of my daughters after their vehicle accident. And I still cherish the James Michener book he surprised me with years ago. My heart breaks for you and your family.
Mary Wadekamper says
Sara, Sarah Lee, Shane – I was so saddened to hear of Adron’s passing. He was a mentor to me when I worked with the medical staff at St. Peter’s. He was Chief of the Medical Staff at that time and taught me so much. We were friends for many years. I always admired how he talked of his wife, Sara, and his children. He was so proud of them and their accomplishments. He said such good things about his wife, Sara. Always. Nice to hear a husband/father talk so highly of his family. They meant the world to him. He loved airplanes and flying, as I did, and he was an accomplished pilot for many years. I took him flying whenever I could. Lots of fun and smiles on those flights.
I will miss him, yet will always have the many fun memories of a good friend. He touched so many lives.
Kris Palmquist says
Dear sweet Sara and family….my heart goes out to you with all my love. Adron was such a handsome distinguished Southern gentleman that always had a twinkle in his eye and a smirk on his face…followed by a huge wink! Adron valued all his family as a treasured gift and loved them fiercely. Sara …Adron knew you as a classy courageous and beautiful strong woman that will be able to continue his legacy with love.
Tom and Judy Rolfe says
Dr. Medley was a fine physician and a gentleman who we greatly admired. We are sorry to learn of his passing and send our mist sincere condolences to you Sara and the entire family. He will certainly be missed.
Sandy Bradford says
Sara and family – my heartfelt sympathies to you in the loss of Adron. I celebrate God’s goodness in releasing him from the confinements of Alzheimer’s disease. Cherishing the memories of our children growing up together. I send you a HUG. You have a special place in my heart.
Janet Atchison says
Sare and kids, prayers for your loss
Bea rizza says
So sorry to hear this news. My sympathy to all of you. I have many fond memories. Bea rizza
Glen J Cuchine says
Dear Sara and family,
My thoughts turn to you all at this time and I hold each of you in my heart. May the many wonderful memories of your wonderful husband, father, grandfather, confidant and friend sustain you at this time and in the days to come.
Jill Caldwell says
Sara, I am so sorry for your loss. Please know you will be in our prayers. God bless you all, and may saints and angels welcome your sweetheart into the arms of God.
Jane Bradford McCrone says
Sara: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.
Leo C. Dutton says
Dear Sara and Family,
I offer my sincere condolences to all of you. I don’t think I ever thought of Dr. Medley as Adron, just Doctor. When I was a paramedic, we met in the ER many ah times. I can’t say he was real patient, but he was the top of his class for surgeons. He would roll into the parking lot in his yellow corvette, and off to the ER or OR. Then as deputy, things changed, I had the opportunity to visit him on my turf 😊. All the family proved they are top notch. We have had a great relationship ever since and he was a great supporter. He loved personal values, but he loved all his kids demonstrate them in their behavior. What a man, what a legacy. Leo C. Dutton Sheriff/Coroner.
Cherie Taylor says
Sara and Medley family,
A truely great man was lost; however, I will remember some very signficant memories forever. It was my pleasure to be able to work along side him to make sure quality healthcare remained in Cut Bank. Dr. Medley had a significant impact on my leadership and our critical access hospital. Many times he would come in my office and share bits of wisdom/ nuggets of truth. Our church always talks about “leaning into the wisdom of the wise.” I had the honor of leaning into his wisdom. It was not uncommon for him to stop by my office to remind me that a life has ever been dramatically impacted by an email or in a meeting. He would remind me that I would need to connect with people as a leader to actually impact lives. At the same time, he would remind me that leadership is never done in an office. Leading can only be done with connection to the people I am leading. Never was any of this said with ill will, but with a genuine heart to guide someone to a greater level of leadership. It lead us to have patient huddles every day with over five departments present to discuss how we can provide the best care to each patient in the facility that day. We even do it when our inboxes are full and our meeting schedules are heavy. Adron’s wisdom is a big part of my leadership. His significant contribution to my life was what he woven into it daily when we worked together. He will be missed and forever remembered. I owe him a great deal of gratitude!
Stephen Behlmer MD says
I send my sincere condolences to Sara and to Adron’s children. Adron was a mentor to me. He was a surgeon who was devoted to his family and to his profession. Since I am out of state, I won’t be able to attend his funeral. Please know that I am with you all in spirit.
Lia E Medley says
It’s been three days since you passed. My heart is broken. I loved you, Grandpa. You were funny, brave, strong, you inspired me to stand up for what I believe in. I am trying to live life but it’s hard because you are on my mind. I don’t know how to keep going after losing someone who loved me unconditionally. I miss your smile. I don’t know if I can go to Montana without not having you there. You taught that being a Medley is something to be proud of. I love you Grandpa forever. My life will be far from easy when you are gone but, your strength will guide me.
James Bentley says
My sincere condolences to the Medley family for your loss. But what a great legacy, what a great man, and what beautiful people he left behind for us to know and Love. Thank you, Mr. Medley, for your family, and your imprint upon this world. May God Bless you and keep you, and may your family rest easy knowing that you are in our Father’s loving embrace.
Jody Pace Davie says
Sara, I am so sorry to read of Adron’s passing. He was first of all my lifesaver, literally, and in recent years he also became my friend. I am forever grateful for his medical expertise and also for the way he loved you all those years. You deserved an amazing husband and friend like him. Take care and know you are in my thoughts. Your friend from WAY back.
James Maher says
“The Tennessee Stud” a great man and physician. He could “walk the walk…” Never without a word of wisdom for his consulting physicians. Sara, sorry for your loss.
Steve Morgensen says
In conversations over the years, I was always proud to say, Adron Medley is my brother-in-law.
In a dictionary, you can look up the definition of class”. To me, all that was needed was one look at Adron Medley. He personified class as a husband, as a parent, as a grandparent, and as a physician.
A little over thirty years ago, a close family member needed surgery and without hesitation, she requested that Adron perform the procedure. The surgery was completed, and we were waiting for an update. Adron came into the family waiting room and proceeded to explain the extent and results of the procedure with the utmost clarity, compassion, and insight. I still remember the calming effect Adron had on our family, and it made me proud knowing his patients and their family members received such great care and professionalism during their stressful life event
To borrow a quote from “Lonesome Dove”, a film and book favorite of Adron’s.
“Cheerful in all weathers. Never shirked a task. Splendid behavior”. This was Adron Medley… you will be missed my friend.
Catherine Ortwein says
Sara,
I am so sorry for your loss of Adron. He was fine doctor and so loved his life with you. I hope you can treasure the years of sharing life with him as blessed and know that his love still dwells in you. Praying for your peace of heart and mind as you go through this time of grief.
Love and prayers, Catherine Ortwein
Mike & Carolyn Medley says
To Sara and all my Medley cousins and family. It is very heartwarming reading all the tributes to Adron. As I turn to the book of John I know this will bring you great peace. Jesus is speaking “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” Even though our loss is overwhelming I can’t help but think what a great reunion is taking place in heaven now especially with his earthly father, mother and grandparents. Much love to all and remember our home in Tennessee is open 24/7. Mike and Carolyn Medley
Allee McAlmond says
It was an honor to know this kind soul. Adron would visit with me while I cleaned. He would tell me how to drive down the hill if it was snowy. I would say OK and he would make me repeat what he said!! He spoke highly of his children and was proud of them.. I know he is at peace now, but still makes me super sad. He reminded me a lot of my dad.. I can hear him saying “Leave it” Sam (his beloved lab) Rest High Adron. Thanks for telling me stories of you growing up. Sara and family you are in my heart.
Allee
Cindy Morgensen says
I am saddened by the loss of Adron. I am remembering all the fond memories and wonderful times our families had together and feeling how blessed we were to have known him.
The first time I met Adron was in 1974 at St. Peter’s Hospital. I was working the late shift, around 7:30 p.m. in the admission office along with 4 other girls in the business office. In walks a new physician who walks up to the counter which gets everyone’s attention. In his southern way, he introduces himself and hands me a pizza for all as an expression of his gratitude to us. Little did I know that 6 years later he would be taking pictures at my wedding and becoming my brother-in-law.
Adron was a remarkable man and physician, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and a caring friend. I will miss him and his unique sense of humor. My heart is filled with sadness for the entire Medley family. May he rest in peace, I will always be here to support you.
The Very Rev. Stephen Brehe says
Dear Sara and family
Jackie and I are saddened to hear of Adron’s death, but also know that there has been a great release from the ravages of Alzheimer’s. Still, it is so hard to make that final goodbye. I am glad that you have the church to stand with you and your family.
I have good memories of Adron. I thanked him a couple of times for keeping a couple of my parishioners alive. I enjoyed having him in one of my community study groups. He was a curious participant. I think he liked the idea of studying the Bible in a brewery. And I will never forget that day he came to me when he learned Shane had been wounded and we went to the altar to pray.
Now he is at rest and whole once again in God’s arms. I wish I could be there for his funeral, but we are in St. George UT right now. But be assured of prayers from afar. Prayer reduces great distances.
God bless,
Steve and Jackie Brehe
Anita Monteiro says
Dear Sara,
I am so sorry for your loss. Although I did not know Adron personally, knowing you (Sara) in a professional capacity, and hearing you say that to know your husband, is in part to know you, I can only imagine what an amazing human being he was. Because I see that in you. Your kindness, authenticity and warmth are truly incredible. May you and your beautiful family carry forward wonderful memories of your time together, and may you all be the amazing legacy Adron left behind.
Sending prayers up, and positive thoughts your way.
Hugs,
Anita
The Very Rev. Raymond D Brown says
Dear Sara and family,
Please accept my sincere condolences on the death of Adron.
My experiences of him were limited to my time working part time as an EMT at St. Peter’s Hospital when he was there many years ago . I concur with Leo Dutton’s assessment, “He was the top of his class for surgeons. It was an honor and a privilege to work with him. We knew that the patients we entrusted to him would be receiving excellent care.
His victory of life is won. May he rest this day in well earned peace.
In Christ’s love,
Raymond+
Denise Feller says
Years ago, I worked as a nurse on Surgical Floor. We knew when Dr. Medley was on the floor just by hearing his ” walk” down the hall. He took outstanding care of his patients and we knew they had received the best. Later, my daughter and Sara Leigh played basketball together and I got to know Sara. They are a wonderful family and I am truly sorry for their loss.
Randi Rognlie says
Dear Sara and family,
I have such fond memories of Adron picking me up to babysit for you in the yellow stingray. He’d let me drive and go by my friends houses on the way from Lockey Street to your house! Hot stuff! My mom, who was the recovery room nurse at SP, adored him too. I remember her often mentioning “Med” and always with a smile. She passed a few months ago and was no doubt happy to see him in heaven. We will miss Adron and remember him well as we continue to enjoy the work you both did to enhance the South Hills trails here in Helena.
Nathalie Caulliez says
Dear Sara, my sincere condolences on the loss of Adron. He and Jim will have lots to talk about where they are now. As a nurse, I had the highest respect for him and the way he treated his patients. As a neighbor, I knew the hills were safe under his careful supervision. Adron, an unforgettable man.
Thinking of you all.
Nathalie Caulliez
Jan Brown says
I was saddened to read of Dr. Medley’s death. In 1983 I was diagnosed with colon cancer. Dr. Medley performed the surgery that saved my life and kept me around for all the years since. I remember how kind, but firm he was when telling me that, yes, I had to keep those miserable surgical stockings on! May he rest in peace.
Mark Jared says
Mark Jared and family say,
Dear Sara and family, our sincere condolences for your loss. Although over the past 40 years our paths seldom crossed I remember Adron as outstanding and very independent person whose decision to leave Tn and relocate to Montana was in great inspiration and made my decision to live overseas a bit more acceptable. I remember the last time I saw him and we had a great talk he complemented that I had become interesting. His Mother was such a huge influence and help tutoring my bride though her citizenship. We have such fond feeling for the family and morn with you in your loss. May he Rest In Peace.
Ray and Christy Fuller says
Dear Sara and family,
We are so very sorry about the loss of Adron, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Our hearts are hurting for you and your family. We have many fond memories of Adron, from taking pictures at our wedding to helping us several times medically and personally. Ray always appreciated when he took time out of his busy schedule to visit him in the hospital. Having you both attend our son, Christopher’s, wedding was also a blessing. Adron was a kind, compassionate and intelligent man and will very much be missed. We are praying that God will wrap His comforting arms around you and your family during this very difficult time.
Dawn and Gary Morgan says
Dear Medley Family,
Just have the need to say thank you to Doc, one more time, for saving my husband’s life ! Doc did an emergency surgery back in 2006, that in fact , did save my husband !! My husband is still doing well and still repeats some of the words of wisdom that Doc freely shared with him, and then chuckles. Those two men made an instant connection as the military was in both of their lives. Thanks to you, Docs family for sharing this man with so many people ! May he RIP ! God bless you all. The Morgan family
Gary Dunn says
Sara, I’m sorry for your. I know your life with your husband was a special one. It is always difficult to lose someone you love. If there anything I can do to help you or your family. I hope to attend the services but may be possible. Please share my thoughts with your family. Your friend, Gary
Doris Copenhaver says
Doctor medley was my doctor when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My favorite memory of him was when I asked him if he could do a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy and he looked me straight in the eye and said I’m here to save your life not your breast.
He was right and I’m still around to see 80 years of age. I often teased him that when I had reconstruction I was going to come into his office in nothing but shorts and a long coat and Flash him. He laughed and said he would await the day. God bless him and his family he was a good doctor and friend.
Kathrine Anderson says
Dear Sara, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I will keep you and your children in my thoughts and prayers. Take care – Kate (Munck) Anderson
Helen Amundson says
Dear Sara and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. As a nurse on surgical floor at St. Peter’s I worked with Adron for many years. I always knew when he was coming down the hall to make rounds as I heard the click of his cleats! He was such a skilled,kind and understanding doctor. RIP Dr. Medley.
Bob and Lois Olsen says
Sara, we are so sorry for your loss. We hope you find joy in your special memories.
Jonathon Henderson says
While I did not know Dr. Medley, I know his son Mr. Lee Medley very well and he is an indication of a great legacy carried by Adron. Obviously Adron was a great man and father. His son now carries on the patriotism and kind character he learned from his father. Prayers to the family dealing with the loss.
Bernadine Snyder says
I am so sorry to see this. I worked with Dr Medley in surgery as a surgical technician while going to nursing school. He liked to talk about his family, loved his wife and loved his dog, loved giving a young girl a lecture whenever he could. I really enjoyed working with him and he taught me alot, there are days I know that I should have listened to him more and sometimes his stories I knew then by heart, but he had a great heart. I’m really glad to have known him and really sad to have not seen him in so long. I am glad he is at peace and probably chatting with everyone who will listen.