Elaine Jane Littlebird, Mo’ e’ha’e (Elk Woman), of Missoula, passed away in her Home on January 29th, 2025, at the age of 58. She was in the caring company of James Frazier, her life partner of 30 years. Elaine was born to Delbert Littlebird Sr. and Judith (Eagle) Foote on June 27th, 1966 in Fort Yates, North Dakota. She was the eldest of 8 children.
She was raised in Ashland, where she attended St. Labre Indian School and was part of the High School Class of 1984. As a High School student, she was active in several school activities, and enjoyed playing the clarinet in the school band. She was also part of the Upward Bound Program, which got her out of her comfort zone, allowing her to travel independently for the first time.
She became inspired to venture out on her own, and eventually moved to Missoula. For a time, she attended The University of Montana and completed coursework to be a Special Education Teacher. Elaine’s dream to become a mother became reality in 1996 when she was blessed with her “miracle child”, Michaela. She was an amazing mother and in effort to cherish her time with Michaela, she started her own Daycare called “Miki’s House”. She welcomed all children into her Home, nurturing them and given them all her love. She cared for the children of her relatives, who like herself had moved off the Reservation to pursue better opportunities in Missoula. Caring for and helping raise children was
her passion. She was an Auntie, Grandma, Sister and Mother figure to many over the years.
Elaine was a tenacious woman and desired most to uplift her community. She voluntarily served on the Board of Directors for the Missoula Indian Center, now the All Nations Health Center. This goal to improve health care opportunities and rich the quality of life for Urban Native people was a continuation of the legacy of her father, Delbert Sr. She often traveled to Washington DC, where she lobbied for continued funding of healthcare programs in Montana. Her love of writing and penmanship aided her in writing grants that helped further fund health and wellness programs for Native people.
Elaine loved sharing her time with others and brought people together. She enjoyed cooking meals for friends and family. Entertaining with a quick-witted joke was her opener. She made friends everywhere she went and looked for opportunities to make a connection. A good rummage sale or craft fair were her favorite Saturday morning activities. Her best friend Valarie Costilla kept her company along the way.
Most recently, she enjoyed the company of her first grandson, Noah Brave Richards. She adored him dearly, doting him on endlessly and loving him eternally. Elaine will be remembered as a strong, resilient woman and an incredible mother, grandmother and friend. She always came with a joyous smile, a warm hug to offer and a kind listening ear. Laughter was her medicine, while love was her currency. Above all else she was a devout Christian woman. Her faith in God never wavered, and only grew stronger in her final days. Her faith is testament to all that Faith, Kindness and Wisdom are the pillars of life.
Elaine was welcomed Home by her Father Delbert Sr., Stepfather Daniel Foote, Great-grandfather ‘Smokey’ Seminole, Grandmother Lena Gray, and other relatives who have gone on before her. She will be laid to rest on February 5th , 2025, next to her beloved Father.
Elaine is survived by her partner James Frazier, her daughter Michaela (Michael) Richards, and beloved grandson, Noah Brave. She is also survived by her Mother Judith Foote, and her 7 Siblings: Delbert Jr., Shannon (Connie), Anissa (Kevin), Delmarie (Lenard), Helena (Nick), Jonnie and Shandel. She’s also survived by many nieces and nephews who she loved dearly and took pride in. Lastly. Elaine had knit together an extensive ‘Missoula Family’, and she is also survived by them.
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Tuesday February 4, 2025
Rabbit Town Tin Hall
Ashland, Montana 59003
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday February 5, 2025
Rabbit Town Tin Hall
Ashland, Montana 59003
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Tuesday February 4, 2025
Rabbit Town Tin Hall
Ashland, Montana 59003
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday February 5, 2025
Rabbit Town Tin Hall
Ashland, Montana 59003
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Donna Wick says
Condolences to the family you are in my prayers
Diana McLean says
RIP Elaine. You are Home now. I met Elaine at the Baptist Church in Missoula when my daughter, Olivia, lived up there. Prayers & Hugs for her family.
daylene tobin says
My friend I will miss you. Your good spirit and laughter always made me happy. I admired your devotion and your dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be missed by many people. Your evangelical spirit that you shared with others will be praised in Heaven I love you daylene tobin
Diane Spotted Elk says
Eternal peace to you Elaine. You were always so thoughtful of others. It wasn’t often that I’d run into to but when we did you always had a hug and smile to offer. Prayers for your family and friends.
Roberta Bement says
Elaine, my classmate since we were very young. Rest in eternal peace my friend…thank you for stopping to see me when you came home for visits. Class of 1984 will always rock the halls of St. Labre….we ruled the school my friend. I’ll see you when I get to Heaven…until then, watch over us all. Condolences to your family…Give my son a hug for me my friend and let him know how much I love him and miss him.
Faye Ellen says
Judith and All…my condolences to each of you. I hold fond memories of many in your family. Rest in Peace Elaine, until we meet again.
Diana Goidwin says
Condolences to all Elaine’s family. She was always so kind and I enjoyed being around her. Rest in peace 💔
Jane & Les Thompson says
Dear Judith and Family,
So very sorry to read of Elaine’s passing. I fondly remember our times of gathering at Ashland Christian Fellowship.
Love and peace be with you all.
Serina M Carter RedRobe says
Elaine, my friend, your ‘journey’ across, brings me sadness. Although, Joy will be your Reward. I love you, sister-from-another-mister, Love&Prayers to Elaine’s Loved family.
Jim & Sheri Bement says
Sending our prayers and condolences to the family of Elaine. I remember meeting you in the Missoula Mall when you recognized Jim. I thought you were so positive and nice and friendly. Thank you and have a safe journey.
Mike Griffes says
Elaine, Thank you, RIP.
You will be remembered always…
Mike Griffes & Elizabeth Crawford