Our beloved wife and mother, Barbara Jean Braided Hair Motse’eoehnehe’e “Sweet Medicine Woman” Taa’eveohtse’e “Walks At Night Woman” started her journey across Seaone on July 10, 2019. Barbara, was born to Edward Foote Jr. and Eva Strange Owl on April 28, 1964. Barbara “Bubbles” was raised in Birney, MT by her maternal grandmother the late Grace Strange Owl. Barbara cherished her time with her grandmother and honored her by carrying on her teachings.
On August 26, 1984, she married Otto Braided Hair Jr., together they raised three children Vanessa (Aaron) Harris, Jessica (Lawrence) Spang and Otto (Amber) Braided Hair III. She was blessed with three grandsons Donald Bishop, Brave Bull Spang, & Roan Nicholas Braided Hair whom she cherished immensely. They were her pride and joy.
Barbara worked as a Payroll Specialist for the Northern Cheyenne Tribe 5 for years before dedicating nearly 20 years to First Interstate Bank in Lame Deer, MT as the Branch Manager. In the beginning, she quickly recognized that her first language, business and social skills were keys to helping her people. She valued everyone who walked through the bank doors and always offered advice and comfort to all in need. She created many special bonds during her time with First Interstate Bank and was often seen as a pillar in the Cheyenne Community.
If you knew Barbara, you knew she loved her community and joined many organizations to help bring resources and opportunities to her people. Some of those organizations were Cheyenne Children Services, Leadership Montana, Montana State Governor’s Commission on Community Service, Montana Ambassadors, National Indigenous Woman’s Resource Center, Fire Corp (In support of her husband as Director of the Northern Cheyenne Fire Protection Department), Hopa Mountain and People’s Partners for Community Development.
Barbara had a remarkable way of managing her home and work life, always putting her Cheyenne way of life at the forefront.
Barbara enjoyed the simple pleasures and made singing and dancing a part of her daily life. Being a self-taught singer, she took pride in learning many important traditional songs, a skill she passed on to her daughters. Always encouraging others to sing by her around the drum.
One of her greatest joys in life was meal preparation. Since she was little, she liked to cook and grew to love planning meals. She was especially honored to participate in preparing the food for ceremonies and special gatherings because she understood the importance of meal preparation within our Cheyenne Culture. She humbly prepared every meal with upmost respect and prayer and believed in its healing power. Every dish was special, and many have felt her love and blessings through her meals.
Barbara looked forward to Summer the most because it was time to pick berries and gather, especially at Green Leaf. It was a time for her to travel, meet new people, catch up with old friends and make new friends, something she did so effortlessly.
Barbara carried an energy that caught your attention and an inviting smile that pulled you in. She was such a gentle spirit and beautiful human being. Her life’s work was nothing short of amazing and it will continue, through the teachings she instilled in her children, organizations she built, friendships she fostered and lives she touched.
She was a humble leader and walked with great strength and honor, she instilled those qualities in whomever she met.
Her greatest joy was being a “Ke’ee” grandmother, she loved all her grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family. Her special sisters were DeeWanda Littlecoyote, Sara Mathuin, JuDee Anderson, Stella Ortega and sister-in-law Elizabeth Braided Hair.
Barbara was preceded in death by her father Edward Foote Sr., Grandmother Grace Strange Owl, Brother Clifford “Sonny” Small and Sister Ilona Foote. Extended families include: Redneck, Littlebird, Elkshoulder, Two Two, Seminole, Nightwalker, Sandcrane, Fisher, Fighting Bear, Tallwhiteman, Clubfoote and Medicine Bull. We apologize for not being able to include all families as they are too numerous to mention.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Saturday July 13, 2019
Boys and Girls Club
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Saturday July 13, 2019
Greenleaf Cemetery
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Saturday July 13, 2019
Boys and Girls Club
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Saturday July 13, 2019
Greenleaf Cemetery
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Share
Ann (Strange Owl) Knows His Gun says
Can’t believe you left on your journey my big sister 💔😭 I wasn’t ready to let you go. I know you told me to be strong and I have been. Sorry to be selfish in my own sorrow. I will cherish all our memories sister. I will miss you in our physical being but know you are at peace no more pain. I love you so much. Hugs my nieces & nephew & brother-in-law. RIP big sister
Melissa Whitewolf Royston says
Prayers to the braidedhair family. Sending my condolences to you and your family. Bubbles was an awesome person, she will be missed.
ROBERT LITTLE WOLF says
THE NORTHERN CHEYENNE CHIEF COUNCIL EXTEND THEIR MOST SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF BARBARA BRAIDEDHAIR AND PRAYERS FOR STRENGTH DURING THIS MOST SAD, SORROWFUL AND MOURNFUL TIME FOR THE LOST OF BELOVED LOVE ONE.
Johnnie McClusky says
Thoughts and Prayers for the Braidedhair family. Barbara was dynamic and unique human being. She will be missed by many.
Marilyn Mader says
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in our prayers as you go through the days and weeks ahead. I pray the Lord grants you comfort and wraps his arms around you as you grieve. I’m so saddened to hear of this!
Jean Branscum says
My greatest sympathy to the family of Barbara. It was a blessing to have known Barbara through our leadership journeys. I deeply valued her friendship and mentorship. Her impact is forever lasting. My prayers are with you.
Tawnya Schoolitz says
My deepest sympathy to the family of this wonderful woman. When I started at the Bank, she was so kind and generous with her time and I was honored that she shared some stories and traditions with me. How lucky we were to have been on this Earth at the same time as Barbara.
Allen Clubfoot Jr. says
Condolences to Barbara’s family and friends.
R.I.P. Barbara
Chantel Schieffer says
Barbara has forever impacted the entire state of Montana through her service to many organizations, including Leadership Montana. We are all deeply saddened by her passing and will take comfort knowing that she is now at peace.
On behalf of Leadership Montana’s Class of 2005, Board of Governors, and more than 600 alumni, I send my regards and sympathies.
FIB Family says
Sending thoughts and prayers to the family of Barbara. She will be greatly missed.
Gerald Sherman says
I am saddened to hear of Barbara’s passing and pray for a good journey to the spirit world. She was a wonderful and gracious person and I will miss her. Blessings to Barbara’s family and close friends. Her spirit will live on in our memories. Wopila.
Tom Scott says
As I sit here I can see Barbara’s smiling face and feel the gentle glow radiating from her spirit. Barbara was a special person and will be missed by many. Our world was not ready for her passing.
My condolences to her family and her many friends that are dealing with the void in their lives that is life without Barbara.
Tom Scott
Cathy Frank says
Otto and family, I am so saddened by the loss of our dear Barbara. Such a gentle soul with the kindest heart. Our condolences to your family. Prayers and hugs.
Cathy and John Frank
LilDorothyNRandySeminoleWhitedirt says
I didn’t know you were that sick auntie…. you will be greatly missed it just hurts my heart </3
sending my prayers to the family, sorry about your loss 🙁
fly high in the sky, God gained another angel!!
Monica Norse says
Vanessa Grace, Jessica Bess, and Sonny;
I’m so sorry to hear about your mother passing. She was such a kind soul. I am going to miss the hugs she always had for me and my kids whenever we seen her. She was always interested in what my kids were doing. I remember going to Birney when I was young with Lori, I always was excited to see her. I was fascinated with her smile. a contagious smile a trait I am sure she inherited from her grandma grace. You all are in my prayers. Your mom was loved by so many and I am grateful to have had her in my life. Sending you all my love and prayers. Maheo be with you and comfort you in your time of need.
Grace Larson says
Otto and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Barbara’s passing. I pray that all of you are strengthened by memories of this wonderful woman. Barbara had a wonderful smile and was so pleasant to visit with. May God Keep Her In His Care.
Stephanie Fisher says
Luv & Prayers to my beautiful sisters and my brother❤️ Always grateful for everything your mother did for my family and kids. The luv, the prayers and esp the food! She was always supportive of my uncle and an awesome wife, mother, auntie and kee’ee. A role model for many of us and she instilled the morals and values of the Cheyenne way of life into so many of our lives. I have to give her credit since she could put up with my dads teasing and give it right back lol I could jus hear her telling him “errr” Nemehotz auntie❤️
Lori Killsontop says
Bubbles were going to miss your kindness, your caring heart and most of all your laughter. Our sincere condolences goes out to Otto and family may the great spirit be with you all.
Andrita Harris says
Braidedhair Family
So sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. Bubbles RIP.
Amy & Rob Pontius says
We will forever remember Barbara’s genuine smile and her gentle spirit. Always so kind and caring towards anyone she crossed paths with. She was a very special person and will be greatly missed by many. Sincere condolences to The BraidedHair family.
Su' & Mosiah Shot Gunn says
Little sister, you were so kind & compassionate. Please accept my most sincere condolences Otto & family. God bless you all , with love & continued prayers.
Major & Michelle Robinson says
Otto, hard to find the words. The stars just blinked. So very sorry for your loss. We love and support you, Barbara and your family.
Tanya Ishikawa says
Sorry that my words will be insufficient. I wish I had something powerful to say at such a difficult time. I love Barbara and the Braided Hair family so much. She was so kind to my family throughout our relationship. Her smile and laugh were so beautiful. I can’t believe she is no longer here. Otto, Barbara, Vanessa, Jessica and (little) Otto added such special moments to my wedding. I was so proud of her as a mother, wife and a career woman. So sad for everyone to lose her leadership and joy. I am only consoled that perhaps Barbara is sitting somewhere with Elaine Strange Owl and relatives, enjoying a reunion.
Russell Brooks says
My deep condolences & prayers to Otto & family. Barbara will greatly missed for sure ♡ Maheo give you comfort & peace, as she makes her journey Home.
Denise Swank says
Bubbles was a childhood friend. Teen buddy. Became my aunt. In the time spent away from home for years we lost contact until summer times at the pow wow we’d visit at the drum. her smile so contagious. Returned home five years ago n she was still as as friendly as ever with that awesome kindness n smile. She will be missed by many. Prayers for Otto n children. As well as her other family. And friends. Rest now in a pain free paradise. Till we meet again.
Marsha F. Small says
Barbara,
You were an inspiration for us all.
Safe journey my relative.
Suzette Shreffler says
Condolences and prayers BraidedHair family.
I will miss great conversations and laughs with Barbra. At the bank she always acknowledged everyone. Her door was always open and welcomed you with her beautiful smile.
Journey well my friend, until we meet again…….
Jay Houle says
She would always smile and wave from her desk when I walked in to the bank! I still go in thinking she will be there. Otto and family, my deepest sympathies for you. She fought a good fight, with all of your support. Barbara, journey well and you will be missed by many.
Ambrose Sr. & Clementine Seminole says
Sending our prayers and condolences to the families.sure missed Barbara since she took her leave from the 1st Interstate bank.it was sure good to hear the Cheyenne language spoken there when the elders would go in and see her for there banking needs also her greetings.
Rae Peppers says
Much condolences to the family, she were a wonderful friend and community member. Prayers for strength in the coming days.
Maureen Rude says
I think I am still in shock and don’t want to accept this–but I know that Barbara’s creator is accepting her with open arms. She was such an amazing person and spirit. I met Barbara through Leadership Montana and we shared much time and friendship together. She helped me learn and understand more about her culture and why it is so important to keep it going. My condolences to the family and all of Barbara’s friends and colleagues.
Cesia Kearns says
I only met Barbara a few times, but she always made an impression on me. She was a kind person who stood up for what she believed in. I know she will be deeply missed. Her memory is one that will always inspire me and others to do better. My deepest sympathies to her loved ones who lost her too soon.
Beverly Stiller & Family says
Sending Prayers and Love to the Braided Hair family. Barbara was such a sweet kind person that brought positive energy to each day.
Jack and Carol Bailey says
I have a hard time believing this.. It seems like things moved so fast. We will miss her smiling face and cheerul greeting.
Cheyenne Trailriders says
She always had that beautiful, welcoming smile that made you feel special. Her talents were many and she joined her husband in welcoming and thanking those who came to the reservation to offer help. Otto we know your pain has to be deep and we want you to know we are here to help you in any way we can. During times when we were both sharing in welcoming those who helped make our reservation a better place, she was so kind and helpful. We know the sorrow your and your family are feeling is deep. Please know we care. Zane and Sandy Spang. Cheyenne Trailriders.
Zane and says
Let us know if we can help.
Jeannie Hall says
Our family and the many members of First United Methodist Church in Sheridan were blessed by Barbara’s gentle loving spirit. The United Methodist Women of Yellowstone Confernce grew in their understanding through Barbara’s leadership on the shores odnClatjead Lake. Blessings to Otto and the family as you suffer through this time of grief.
Amy Kellogg says
To say that my heart is heavy is an understatement at the loss of my friend. We had conversations over the years about where we each grew up and how different yet similar our experiences were. We talked about our parents, our loving husbands, our children, and of her grandchildren. We talked leadership, diversity, and culture. She never judged me for asking questions about her culture, but listened deeply and answered graciously.
My friend, I wear the hand beaded pin you made for me when I need grounding and strength, like today. I will look for you every night in the Milk Way, for I know you will be smiling softly down and guiding many in times to come.
Judy Ross says
So sad to hear of Barbara’s passing. She was a amazing person and will be missed. Prayers to her family.
Antonia (Prairiebear) Peone says
Barbara was always kind to me, I’m grateful to have known her, even just a short time in my childhood, reflecting back you always remember a kind soul, a beautiful Cheyenne woman.
Sending love & prayers to the Braidedhair family, friends, community.
Sharon Peterson says
Words escape me. I’ll never forget Barbara’s warm hugs! Her footprints will be forever in my heart. Sending love to family and friends.
Ruth Costilla & Family says
So sorry to hear of Barbara’s passing, she was a very kind and polite lady. She was always so kind and greeted me when I walked into the bank, she greeted everyone with a smile.
Condolences and prayers to the family as they mourn and hearts are heavy, RIP Barbara,
Shirl Pinto-Robinson says
Condolences to the Braidedhair family. Barbara was a wonderful young woman. She always displayed great leadership and kindness to everyone in the community. She always had a big smile and a welcoming hello whenever I met her in Lame Deer, at the bank or the store. I was saddened to hear of her passing. I will always remember her lovely personality and especially her warm smile Prayers for the family.
Dolores Shoulderblade says
Sending our prayers and condolences to Otto and kids.
Bubbles will be greatly missed. The good Lord has gained another beautiful angel.
Thomas blassingame ,Strangeowl says
When I think of you I see that wonder smile , you had away of making those you met feel like a lost traveler on a cold winter’s night feel the warmth of a warm five place when they see you smile. Travel fast my nice far many wait for you. We here will mourn for you till we see you again on the other camp.
Christine Valentine says
I am so sad to hear of Barbara’s passing and send my prayers and deepest sympathy to Otto and all of her family. “Bubbles” was in my first Headstart class in Birney – I think it was 1969, and was such a sweet, cute, and smart little girl. She became a wonderful woman and leader in the community.
J.B says
“Our Sweet Barbara”, You are going to be truly missed. You had such a sweetness about you. Thank you to the family for sharing such a sweet person. Thoughts and prayers go out to all. <3.
David Burt says
Otto and family, I am so sorry for your loss. It is a loss to many. I only met Barbara a couple of times but she was an incredible person. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. May she pass gently over.
George Birtic says
Barbara was such an outstanding person. Will miss her beautiful smile when I saw. What a beautiful Cheyenne in every way. I had so much respect for her. Such an outstanding Cheyenne role model. She will be missed.
Meredith McConnell says
Condolences & Prayers to each of you. Barbara always greeted me with a smile and asked how I was doing. She will be missed!
Jane Nightwalker says
Every time I came from. Oklahome!. I would find my little sister Barbara, zhe would greetmd with a hug, Barbara would say I’m glad you came home sister. i looked forward to that visit. She left a great legacy for her whole family. Father and Mother, and her childern and greatgrandchildern. I’ll miss you and I know you have your angel wings rightnow
Jill Brunson says
This is so hard for me I’m still in shock
when I came home from California she greeted me and my Son’s with love and happiness she was so inspirational to me and my Son’s. I Truly looked up to her as my roolmode and still will. I’ve never met a kinder, loving, happier Strong Woman in my life. I Love you Sister and My Son’s and I will miss you deeply. My Condolences to My Brother in-law and nieces and nephew
Bertha Brown says
Condolences to the families, prayers to you all in your time of sorrow. We will see you again Barbara (Bubbles).
from Eva Bear Cum & family
Malissa brady says
I’m sorry uncle for your loss my condolences to ur family from mine u will b in my prayers. Auntie was caring, friendly, always had a smile on her face. She was an incredible woman ! She will be missed
From Malissa Brady & family
Ellie Barnes says
I met Barbara along with a couple of her friends at Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp. She was a part of our United Methodist Women School of Missions. I loved her friendly spirit and caring ways. I will always remember her. Condolences and love to her family.
Linda Lang says
Barbara was an incredible woman. She will be missed.
Theo Hugs says
Praying for Barbara’s husband, children, family & friends; she shined for Jesus and stood out among us, she had the most amazing smile, she’ll be missed by many.
Earlene Clown says
Condolences to Otto and family.
The Clown Family
Dee Mullen says
Although I only knew Barbara for a few years through Hopa Mountain board I was deeply touched by her. She headed our board with strength,kindness, and consideration. She had a beautiful spirit and a smile that enveloped everyone around her. Barbara you were an inspiration to know. I will miss you as will so many others. My condolences to her family – your angel will continue to move among us and give us strength.
Alaina Buffalo Spirit says
My Medicine Bull family feels your loss, our deepest condolences to your families on both sides- Strange Owl and Braided Hair💔💔 Barbara you are “one-in-a-million.” There will never be another “Bubbles.”
Joel Glanzberg says
Our deepest prayers and condolences on your loss of such a shiny star of a woman. My brief times with her are gifts I often remember fondly. She will be missed as one taken too young
Melissa (and James) Magpie says
I remember when I met Bubbles, it was the first time that I came to Lame Deer to meet all of James’s family (we were already married about 2-3 years by then). I was very intimidated, but Bubbles immediately made me feel welcomed and loved, and I’d only met her 5 minutes before! The next time I saw Bubbles, James was deployed so I took the kids (Shelly and Shane) out there for 4th of July pow wow. When I saw Bubbles again, she hugged me and talked with me as if we saw each other every day. Bubbles loved on Shelly and Shane as if they belonged to her, they loved it!
Unfortunately, I didn’t get to know Bubbles as much as I really wanted to because we live so far away. However, the few memories that I do have of her, I will cherish greatly. Bubbles was one of the sweetest ladies that I was honored in meeting. Xoxo
Clarice big back says
My sincere condolences to Barbara’s family. She always welcomed Eugene and I with great kindness. I’ve met very few people as beautiful as her and how she treated people. Prayers for her friends and family.
Liz Ching says
I will cherish my memories of Barbara’s smiles and hugs. I am thankful to have known her. She will be missed so very much.
Willow says
Prayers & Condolences to your Family and thank you for helping my Sister Mary Ann Whistling Elk Crystal Willow Stanfield & Family
John Bennett says
Barbara was a beautiful person with a kind and gentle spirit who helped me see beyond myself and gave me a better understanding of a people’s history. My prayers go out to family and friends during this time of loss. She will be missed.
CHERE JIUSTO says
So very sorry Otto, Barbara was one whose kindness touched everyone who knew her. Strong, loving and deep. We were honored by her friendship and so sad not to have had more time together. Our hearts are with you and all of your family.
Chere, Jim and all at the Montana Preservation Alliance
Ben Nighthorse Campbell says
To Otto and family my heart and prayers go out to you. I have always cherished by twice yearly visits to Barbara at the bank . What a Cheyenne Treasure has been lost, Ben Nighthorse Campbell.
Dr. Richard and Marcia Hirsh says
Dr. Richard and Marcia Hirsh.
Our sincerest condolences at the loss of such an extraordinary human being. We miss Barbara dearly. During our times together at the Lippman School in Akron, Ohio as well as our visits to the Northern Cheyenne Nation in Lame Deer, Barbara and Otto always made us feel welcome and significant.
Our blessings and prayers to Barbara and her lovely family.
Verna Ivey says
I am greatly saddened that Barbara will no longer be among us to share her smile and genuine kindness. Surely Maheo will welcome her and the ancestors will be blessed to have her spirit among them.
lgray & fam says
~ Auntie !!! I didn’t even kno you passed till lastnight !
I’m heartbroken , last time I seen you , you were smiling &
we waved @ each other – didn’t kno that wud b the last time i’d see you !!!
… damn …
Rest In Paradise , I love you & I’m goin to miss you ❤️
keep watch over us ~
William F. “Bill” Dawson says
Barbara was such a beautiful woman both in body and spirit. I fondly remember visiting Otto and Barbara in their home and the joy she had in showing me photos of her family. Family was so important to her and her love for them was so unmistakable. I will forever cherish the patience she showed to me as a non-Indian.
Wayne StrangeOwl. says
I’ll miss you big sis, your with grandma, and my dad. The next camp. Prayers to your husband and family. We all are going to miss you.