Wanda “Jean” Whitley, 69 of Helena, Montana passed away on Tuesday, August 2, 2011, at Cooney Convalescent Home in Helena, Montana due to a brief illness. She was born Wednesday, December 24, 1941 in Helena, Montana, she was the daughter of Hubert (Frank) and Wanda Lucille (Schiller) Smith. Jean grew up and attended school in the Helena area. She met and married William H. Whitley and they later divorced.
Jean worked as a Home Health Aid with West Mont and a cook with the Cooney Convalescent Home for many years. Jean enjoyed playing board and card games, she loved to fish and camp, attended rodeos and shopping. She most of all enjoyed time spent with her family.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Franny Murray and Helen Betcher; brother, Billy Smith. She is survived by her daughters, Wanda (Steve) Arlint of Helena, MT and Debbie Mucci of Missoula, MT; grandchildren, Amanda (Cory) Steinmetz, Josh (Jess) Arlint and Ian Mucci; great grandchildren, Carter Steinmetz and Elexis Steinmetz; brothers, Fritz (Rae) Smith and Larry (Sandy) Smith; numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, August 15, 2011 at Retz Funeral Home Chapel. A reception will be held at the Eagles, 715 N. Fee St. following the service. Memorials in Jean’s name may be sent to God’s Love, 533 N. Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601. To offer condolences or share a memory of Jean, please visit: www.retzfuneralhome.com.
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Betty Brewer says
I am so sorry to hear of Jean’s passing, but know that she is in Heaven looking down on all of us and smiling with her beautiful smile. She will be missed by all. I pray that God will wrap his loving arms around each and every one of you and you will feel his healing touch. Jean would want you to keep smiling and show God’s love to everyone you meet.
Jean, I will miss you, but will always remember your beautiful smile.
Love, Betty
Teri Gilbert says
Jean, you have been a second mom to us here in Montana. We have spent many days and hours together; visiting, playing cards, shopping and special holiday get togethers. We will all miss the good times we had with you. Rest in peace and keep the smiles coming!! Love you, Dave, Teri and Greg Gilbert
Janice Schenk says
Wanda and Family, So sorry to see you have lost your Mom, she was a delightful lady. Jan
Allen and Glenda says
Smith familys thinking of you and yours in these trying times. God Bless
Kelly Rhimer says
Wanda, Steve and family,
So very sorry to hear about the lose of your Mom, Wanda. I know it will be hard as you were so close. Take care. Thoughts and prayers.
Love, Kelly Rhimer
Marlene Lauretta says
Jeannie was the BEST! She is from a generation that knew what work was all about. I am so content that I was one lucky person that had the honor of knowing this unbelieveable woman.
Rest in peace my friend, rest in peace. You will sorely missed!
Marty Willbee says
My sympathies to Deb and Ian in the loss of her mother and his grandmother. My prayers are with you in this hard time.
Cleo says
Wanda and family,
I was so sorry to read about the loss of your mother. It is always hard to lose someone close to us, no matter how old we are. I remember your mom from K Mart as a very happy and friendly lady. She will be missed by all who knew her.
My deepest sympathy to you all.
Cleo