Ellen Marie (Anderson) Terrett, at the age of 92, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2022 at Holy Rosary Residential Living in Miles City, MT, where she had lived since May of 2017.
Ellen was born on April 19, 1930, in Miles City, MT, the only daughter of Alfred and Annie B. (Johannsen) Anderson. She had three older brothers; Clarence, Raymond and L.P. and a younger brother John. Ellen lived her childhood years at Sheffield, MT, where she started elementary school. Times were hard for her family in the early years, moving twice and finally settling on an irrigated farm/ranch on Tongue River, nine miles north of Ashland, MT. Ellen finished grade school in Ashland. It was told by neighbors that when they saw a car go by without a driver, they knew it was Ellen and John headed to school! Ellen attended high school in Forsyth, MT, graduating in 1948.
After graduation, Ellen returned to the family home, caring for her mother, who was in poor health at the time. While at home, she met Julian Terrett, Jr. at a dance in Ashland, MT. Julian had just returned home from the army. They were married on March 30, 1951 in Miles City, MT.
Julian and Ellen made their home at the ranch on Beaver Creek. She was truly a first-rate ranch wife! Jay was born on December 29. 1951, and nine years later Curtis arrived on August 18, 1960. Nancy followed quickly behind, blessing the family on November 20, 1961. Ellen was a devoted wife, mother, daughter and caregiver to family members, faithfully carrying out her duties in those roles.
Jay was enrolled at Custer County District High School in 1966, which began a period of fourteen years which divided Ellen’s time between Miles City and the ranch, allowing their children to attend school. During those years, Ellen was active in the local and state Cowbelle organizations serving as state president for two years. Ellen and Julian enjoyed many wonderful trips and cruises together during these years. They especially loved the two times they traveled to Hawaii.
After Nancy’s graduation in 1980, Ellen was able to return to her ranch home where she seemed the most content. She loved the smell of spring, the song of the meadowlark, baby calves and the planting of her flowers and garden. Dragging hoses and making every bade of lawn grass green brought her great delight! It was also a time to rekindle her talent for crocheting and needlepoint work.
Ellen was blessed to live close to her grandchildren, as they were blessed to live close to her. She loved them dearly and was careful to spoil them JUST RIGHT!
In 1995, Julian and Ellen left the ranch and moved to their home in Miles City MT. They were enthusiastic supporters of the construction of Holy Rosary Healthcare’s new facility. Together, with great pride, they volunteered for ten years at the new hospital. This was the highlight of their retirement.
Julian passed away in 2007. Ellen continued to live in their home until 2017. She enjoyed visiting with old friends and making new friends. Ellen became active in the First Presbyterian Church, regularly attending Sunday services as well as serving on the Church Council. As her mobility declined, Ellen became an avid reader. She especially enjoyed biographies of conservative Republicans!
Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Julian, her husband of fifty-six years, four brothers and their wives, sister in-law, Louise Terrett, daughter in-law, Gayle Terrett and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Ellen is survived by her children, Jay and his wife Deb, Curtis and wife Kate, Nancy and husband Stan Markuson. Grandchildren: Jaylene (Dade) Allison, Jody (Tony) Reda, Johnna (Jim) Goodwin, Will Terrett (Katie Copps), Cody (Heidi) Terrett, Pete Markuson (Eileen Moran) and Megan Markuson (Colton Bidegaray). Ellen is also survived by ten great grandchildren.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or the Range Riders Museum.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Holy Rosary Healthcare Residential Living for the loving care provided during Mom’s stay.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. They will also have a Service of Remembrance Wednesday night at 5:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 5, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Miles City. Graveside services will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. Reception at The Parlor following the Graveside services. Condolences may be left for the family at www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday May 4, 2022
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Celebration of Life
5:30 pm
Wednesday May 4, 2022
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday May 5, 2022
First Presbyterian Church
1401 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Interment
To follow after Funeral Service
Thursday May 5, 2022
Custer County Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
Luncheon
To follow after Interment
Thursday May 5, 2022
The Parlor
1806 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday May 4, 2022
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Celebration of Life
5:30 pm
Wednesday May 4, 2022
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday May 5, 2022
First Presbyterian Church
1401 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Interment
To follow after Funeral Service
Thursday May 5, 2022
Custer County Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
Luncheon
To follow after Interment
Thursday May 5, 2022
The Parlor
1806 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Tanna Aye says
What a special lady! So many great memories of her and Jullian staffing the volunteer desk at HRH. Iam sure there is a great reunion happening in heaven. My prayers to her family. Hold her memory near to your heart and she will be with you forever.
Bub and Carlene Gaskill says
Condolences to the Terrett family.
MARTHA CRANDALL says
My sympathy
Bob and Rita George says
So sorry for your loss.
Arlene Corbin says
Ellen always had so much energy and zest for life. Truly a wonderful woman!
Marcy Parks says
Nancy, Stan, Megan, Pete, Curt, I am so sorry! Praying for all of you!!
Jackie Stroh and Gary Haughian says
Jay, Nancy. Kurt and Families. Sending you Deep Condolences to you in the Loss of your Mother. She was a Special Lady and such a Corker. I will deeply Miss her at Residential Living. Enjoyed taking care of her all these years. Rest in Peace Dear Sweet Ellen God and the Angels have you now!
Doug and Lucy Benge says
Jay, Nancy, Curt and all family:
Condolences from us on Ellen’s passing. What a classy lady who left a great legacy in all of you. I especially remember a proverb she told me once: you can’t have a rainbow without a storm. Seemed to apply to a lot of situations. We are richer for knowing her and all the Terrett family. Best wishes to all.
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
Pam, Jay and all your family and close friends,
I feel so sorry for all of you😞
May the many memories you made together comfort and keep you now and in the days ahead
Vickie and Dave Gunderson says
Jay, Deb and all of Mrs Terrett’s family, we are so sorry for your Mom’s passing. What a long and wonderful life she led..love and prayers from both of us..
Doreen Pinkham Womack says
Nancy and Family –
So sorry for the passing of your mother. She was quite the lady, and I am certain she will be missed by you and many. Our condolences and prayers to all of you.
Voni & Scott Tally says
We are so sorry for your loss! We are sending our sincere condolences. May your memory’s be comforting.
Sonny Lockwood and Sandy Stahl says
Cody & family – So sorry for your loss. Know that our thoughts are with you and all your family.
Kelli Rooney says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of loss. Ellen was a great neighbour on Beaver Creek. She was an awesome lady.
Maureen Larson says
To all of Ellen’s family~
I know all your hearts must be hurting right now and your grieving is great. What a great legacy she has left and you must have many loving memories…..may they provide comfort to all of you during this difficult time. May you also feel the loving arms of Jesus wrapped around you now and in the coming days.
Donnie and Paula Peplow says
Jay, Deb and Family
May all of those memories you share with each other keep her close to your heart. Our condolences in time of your sorrow.
Donnie and Paula
Jon & Judy Allison says
Jay & Curt, so sorry for the loss of your mother. love & prayers from us.
Chris and Diana Elwood says
Dear Terret Family, Chris and I are so sorry for your loss. It was always a special treat to visit with her in the nursing home. May God be with you all as you go thru the coming days, weeks and months.
Maureen Marko says
Words cannot express your loss, you must feel, of losing your dear Mom and Grandma to your children. She was a very special Lady. Fly high with the Angels Ellen your wings are well deserved may you RIP. Sending our love Patsy, Maureen and Vince
Myron and Cheryl Littlebird says
Jay and Debbie. Very sorry for your loss. Cheryl and I are praying for you and family. Our love to you during this difficult time.
Bill & Brenda Allison says
So sorry for your loss. Many all your wonderful memories bring comfort to you all. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this time of sorrow.
Kim Stanton says
Dear Families,
So very sorry to read of the passing of your beloved mother and grandmother. She was quite the lady and will be missed greatly. Sending you our love, prayers of sympathy, and condolences.
Fondly,
Kim, Kyle, Kasey and Christina Stanton
Mike & Myrna Higgins says
so sorry for your loss Mike & Myrna Higgins
Virgil Denny says
To a wonderful family: No matter how well a life was lived, it’s still hard to see them go. My thoughts are with all of you.
Virgil
John LeMieux says
Hugs Nano – thanks for letting me bring her into your wedding. Prayers for the family.
John
Cheryl J. Lesh-Clark says
Terrett Family,
Such a classy lady who raised some awesome kids. Peace and love to you all as you grieve this loss.
Jane Viall says
You have been on my heart since I learned your mom is gone. Such a fun and interesting woman. I enjoyed her and she blessed me repeatedly. We have known each other since our teens and you are each in my heart and prayers.
Pete and Jackie Walden says
Jay, Curt, Nancy and your families, our prayers for each of you as you endure this time. Your folks were both loved and respected by everyone they met. Ms Ellen was a warm, welcoming and proper class act! There will never be another, but we need more! Our prayers and condolences to you all.
Betty Carroll says
Nancy, Stan & family, My heartfelt sympathy to you, may your memories be a comfort to you. Blessings to you.
Cindy & Dale Berg says
We were so sorry to hear about dear Ellen. She was a wonderful lady, and I so enjoyed visiting with her. Love and prayers to you all. What wonderful memories you have, and what a legacy she left.
Roger G. Sprague says
My Condolences to The Terret Family, Saddened by the loss of another member of taht pioneer family.
Donald John and Alice Cameron says
Jay, Debbie, and all of the family we are sorry to hear of your loss.
Dennis & Susan Bakken says
Our deepest sympathies
Cori Hanel Munsell Brubaker says
Sorry for your loss, both your mother and father were wonderful people.
Susan McClenning says
I will always remember the kindness she showed the Sorenson family when our parents passed. She brought us a home cooked pot roast dinner with all the trimmings! First class comfort food! We so appreciated her thoughtfulness!
Linda Hodgson says
Nancy and family, so sorry for the loss of your mother. Prayers for all of you.
Mary Ottoy says
Terrett Family,
My deepest sympathies. Ellen was a gem! Hugs and prayers to you all.
Shawna Jerrel Rothaus says
I have such fond memories of Ellen. She and Julian were close friends of my folks and they had lots of great times through the years.
My thoughts and prayers are with Ellen’s family and friends during this difficult time~❤️
Ellie MNcholson says
Goody, to beautiful and caring lady
Peace be with you
Ellie Nichol son
Joanne Peterson says
Totally enjoyed Ellen in my times as nurse to her husband, her sister in law and herself through the years. I saw her kindness and giving nature, her interest in her community, church, local history and more, and I regarded her as my friend. She was a fine example to me through the years.