Theresa “Terry” Jeanne Sather passed away surrounded by family on the morning of February 17, 2019, in Helena, MT, at the age of 71. Born in Helena on April 11, 1947, she was the second oldest of six children to Ole and Aggie Sather. Terry attended Helena High School and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Montana State University in 1969.
Terry was a selfless, loving, and compassionate mother who devoted her life to caring and providing for her children. She was extremely involved in her children’s extracurricular activities and rarely missed a performance or event. That same support was extended to children of family members and friends, and she would often travel far distances to attend plays or sporting events. She always involved her children’s friends and teammates and did everything in her power to help them succeed. One of Terry’s passions was hosting birthday parties for her children, often preparing a homemade cake with cream cheese frosting.
Terry’s deep-rooted love for the Helena community was infectious and she could often be found “boogieing” around town from location to location socializing with her numerous friends. Terry seemed to know everyone (you couldn’t go anywhere with her without running into someone she knew). She loved dancing her heart out at Alive at Five and enjoyed frequenting many of Helena’s landmark establishments (such as getting a cup of chili and a Coke at The Parrot, enjoying a hot dog or gyro at Coney Island, or fish and chips and a chocolate Coke at the R-B Drive In). She also loved shopping at local secondhand stores, looking for rare or nostalgic items for the sole purpose of gifting them to family and friends. What made this hobby so unique is that the gifts often had a special meaning and were not given during a holiday or birthday and for no other purpose than to bring a smile. She especially loved shopping for shoes of all shapes and sizes and spent countless hours refurbishing them to donate to Camp Rainbow Gold in Idaho, a children’s oncology camp.
Terry’s last job prior to retirement was as an Administrative Assistant at Rocky Mountain Development Council. Her desk was situated in the main office at the center of all the action, which she enjoyed. She loved interacting with and caring for all of the clientele at RMDC.
Terry was preceded in death by her parents, Ole and Aggie Sather. She loved caring for her mother and provided daily companionship for several decades. Both Aggie and Terry enjoyed satisfying their sweet tooth cravings with frequent trips to The Parrot and the Ice Cream Parlour.
Terry is survived by her husband of 41 years, Jim Lewis; her four children: Josh (Melissa), Mikhail, Guthrie (Miranda), and Cricket; her beloved grandson Kane; her five siblings: Susan (David), Orlie, Sara, Lissa, and Mary; and a whole mess of nieces and nephews with whom she managed to forge very special, unique, and loving relationships with despite having such a large immediate family.
Terry had planned on passing down her life savings to her grandchildren (and grandson due May 31); however, her savings were depleted due to her medical expenses and care. It was important to Terry to be able to provide for her grandchildren’s education. In lieu of flowers and to honor Terry’s love of her grandchildren, the family suggests making donations to Valley Bank: Benefit of Theresa Sather’s Grandkids, 321 Fuller Ave. Helena, MT 59601.
A celebration of her life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. in Helena. A reception will follow the celebration in the social hall of the funeral home. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer condolence to the family or to share a memory of Terry. Terry’s ashes will be interred at a later date.
Janet Tatz says
Terry was always such a vibrant and active participant in the Helena community. Her energy and presence will be missed.
Jannice Odermann says
Terry was a bright spot in people’s lives. No moss grew under Terry’s feet; she loved to get out and about and stay active. It was hard watching her deteriorate because it took from her the energy and mobility needed to live as she wished. I will always remember Terry with a fond heart and smile.
God bless you Terry and keep an eye on your family and friends down here. We will miss you terribly.
Karlee smith says
I first met Terry in the mid-70s at an exercise class. We hit it off and had lots of good laughs together. Over the years we kept crossing paths at live music events, exercise and worked together at Rocky for several years. It was always a good day when I saw Terry. Her impish way and bright spirit will live with me always. Peace Terry, til we meet again.
Kathy McCain says
I will definitely miss Terry in the neighborhood! She was always upbeat and was always there to lend a helping hand when needed also! Glad you are resting In peace, Terry!
Pat McKelvey says
Terry is a classmate of the cathedral high school “greenies”. Always had fun visiting about the happenings from those days with her. Rest in peace Terry.
Chris Hoffman says
Terry was such a sweet girl who would do anything for anyone. She had me laughing many times. I knew Terry in high school and had crossed paths now and then the past years. It was always fun to see her. The last time I saw her was at the hospital where she told me of her illness. She was there alone and was a very strong girl. I hope she had help the last few years and a lot of love surrounding her. God s blessings!
Ann Marie Thompson says
Although we only met a short time ago, I sure enjoyed spending time in your presence! You always made me smile! Heaven is a better place with you in it, although you will be terribly missed here!! Love you & all the great memories you have left us with 💋💋
Daphne Brewer Ahrendes says
Terry and I were roommates at MSU. I thoroughly enjoyed her and will miss her. I have fond memories of our college days. Goodbye sweet friend. 💜💜
Lois Simpson says
Terry,
You were one of the first people I talked to when I started at RMDC. You were also one of the nicest people that I have had the pleasure of knowing! I hope you are resting in peace! Although I haven’t spoken to you in a couple of years, I always knew you would be there when the chance arose for a visit, or a lunch date! I will miss you, but you have always been in my thoughts as the time has passed. Many blessings to you and your family!
michael spurzem says
I reconnected with Terry at our 30th and 50th HHS Reunions. Even though she only went to HHS her senior year, she made a positive and lasting impression on all of us. May you rest in peace Terry.
Linney Wix says
Dear Sathers,
I’m so sorry to hear of Terry’s death. I send my condolences to you all. Linney Wix
scott mccollough says
“Tiny” Terry — so kind and funny. I will miss her.
John & Cherie Dahl says
We knew Terry for many years and our thoughts and prayers 🙏 go out to the family!
Pat Stuart Hendershott says
Terry was so kind to all of us through our losses and hard times! She will be missed!
Kim Schleicher says
I met Terry in 1987 when she babysat my children. Over the years I’d see her around town and we’d always have a nice visit. She was a warm hearted and kind woman who loved her family deeply and was very proud of her children,
Frank Kromkowski says
I will miss seeing you, dear Terry.
Blessings and comfort to Jim and all of the family.
Ron Darlington says
We’ve known each other since high school. We would always have time to visit whenever we ran into each other, all through the years. I am so very sorry. Condolences to my lifetime friend Orlie Sather, and the entire Sather family.
Sherrie says
I have had the pleasure of knowing Terry for almost 30 years, she always had a smile and a visit for me. She always remembered me, and my children. She was always sweet and sunny and fun, and I am sad for all of us that she is gone. Fly high sweet Terry ♡♡♡♡
Wanda White says
I worked with Terry at RMDC and she was the smallest person with the largest backbone to, many times, hold all the going on’s at Rocky together. What a silent, important, in the background person that could direct so many. Always kind, a welcoming ‘phone’ presence—Just all around wonderful gal. You will be missed! Always ‘quiet’ but so sweet to all. Helena’s loss is Heaven’s gain. RIP
Diane Macaraeg-Langenfus says
Orlie and family of sweet Terry,
Mike and I have not seen Terry in awhile and had no idea she was having medical problems. I used to see her frequently when our Mother’s were at Waterford. She was so very good to Aggie. It seems she was at every fund raising event we ever attended. She definitely was always thinking of others in need. She will be missed by the community she so loved. Our condolences to the whole family.
Mike and Diane
Patricia Robinson says
Terry was a good friend at MSU and we shared some wild adventures. Even though we were both from Helena we lost touch after college, but I never forgot her. She was amazing and I am truly saddened tonight. I want her family to know how much she meant to many people. She was unforgettable.
Pat Dodge Robinson
Susie Orr says
Terry’s smile laugh and sense of humor will always be remembered . She cracked me up. Much love to you all, Susan, Sarah, Lisa, Mary and Orlie. Some of my best memories growing up on Flowerree, were hanging out in aggies kitchen just talking about everything. Love you all– Susie Reber Orr
Carl Sheran says
Growing up across the street, I first met the Sather’s when they began construction of their home. As we grew up, our families became close friends. Mortality finds us all and she is in a better place now. Rest in Peace Terry.
amy says
May the God of tender mercies provide the needed comfort for Terry’s friends and family during this difficult time.
2 Corinthians 1:3,4
Pat Haas says
A friend from the past! We shared the memories of six of us traveling to Illinois from Montana. Staying at the wardens house at Stateville for the first two weeks until we found something to rent! Sleeping in the park in the car until we found another place to rent! Getting ready to go out for the night in a gas station bathroom because we still hadn’t found a place to rent!Going to the Red Rooster, going to concerts! It was a fun ride while it lasted! There were six of us and now there are two. My condolences to her whole family. RIPTerry.❤️
Larry Murphy says
We pass along our deepest condolences to Orlie and the entire Sather/Lewis clan! Larry and Lisa Murphy
Bill Coddington says
Orlie and Mary we’re so sorry to read about your sisters passing. We never met her but she certainly looks like she had the Sather “sparkle” that makes all of you very special.
Richard Wright says
Dearest Terry — what a sweet lady. I was blessed to visit with her at the last reunion. Great memories of times in high school. My deepest condolences to all of Terry’s wonderful family and close friends. She is at peace in a place without tears, illness, or suffering.
Shannon bartole says
Josh, so sorry to hear about your loss. Your mom always took the time to chit chat when I would run into her around town. Your family will be in my thoughts & prayers.
Kay Johnson says
Jim,
I’m so sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. Ray and I were always happy to run into her around town and spend some time visiting. The last time we saw both of you was shortly after her diagnosis and we were so sorry that someone so full of life had to deal with that. She was typically upbeat, though. I will miss seeing her smiling face out and about.
Kay
Art Graham says
To Jim and Family. I send my condolences. Terry was a special person and a great partner. It has been many years since we last met; still, Terry’ s pleasant demeanor and softness remain in my memory. Jim….Godspeed as you move on without Terry at your side. Until we shake hands again, I send my love from afar. God Bless.
Art Graham
Nha Trang, Vietnam
Marilyn Kelly-Clark says
Mary and Family, I’m so sorry to hear about Terry. I did not know her well, but met her a few times at RMDC. One of my sisters also worked there. She was always a smiling presence when I came by. I hope good memories of her will help fill the void. You’re all in my prayers.
Cathy McMillan says
My dearest Terry,
I will miss your smile and the many timescale home from st. Louis and you were there always to hang out. I know your in a better place, but I’ll miss you so much.
Janice Olsen says
Jim, I am so sorry to read about Terry’s passing. I wish I could have talked to her one last time, but that was not possible. Even though we were only around the Lewis family for about 7 years, we certainly knew all of you so well. Terry and I shared our hearts for many years over the phone and my heart has a large hole recognizing she is physically gone. I will never forget my friend, but I know she is walking around in heaven making others laugh now. My thoughts are with your family. Rest in peace my dear Terry. I still carry your wonderful spirit. I love you.