Imogene Whitedirt – Vohpo’hame’e (White Horse Woman) – was born May 25, 1944 to Charles and Julia Whitedirt. She was the beloved granddaughter of John Whistlingelk and Josie Biglefthand, and Arthur and Maggie Sunroads.
Raised in Muddy Creek at the Whitedirt homestead, Imogene lived a life grounded in tradition, hard work, and love. From an early age, she helped with ranch chores—fencing and riding horses, a true Cowgirl in every sense. She later worked at the St. Labre Indian School Cafeteria and Mother Goose Day Care, where her kind heart and nurturing spirit touched many lives.
Imogene was a four-time Sundance pledger woman. She went through the ceremony with her late husband and soulmate, Lafe Soldierwolf. Together, they built a life filled with culture, prayer, and love. She welcomed all into her home, always with warm frybread, biscuits, dry meat, and a good story. Her strength, humility, and generosity will never be forgotten.
She leaves behind her loving children Julia (Robert) Blackwolf and Raylon Whitedirt Sr.; grandsons Anthony, Corey, Lenard (Marlena) Whitedirt, Alex Blackwolf, Brian Tallbull Jr., Colton Sooktis, Raylon Whitedirt Jr., and Collin Whitedirt; granddaughter Jaylon (Esuan) Whitedirt and her unborn child and her namesake Sheila Jaure.
She also helped raise and loved deeply her adopted sons: Arnie (Debby) Bends, Randy Whitedirt, Spencer (Gwen) Spottedhorse, Mike Craig, Ronnie Craig, Delano (Tina) Harris, Leland Russel, Daryl Blackwolf, and Jay Doney; and her adopted daughter Davetta Archambeau. Imogene cherished her adopted grandchildren: Jaydell, Jahon, and Isiah Walksalong, and Monte (Donita) Killsnight.
Imogene lovingly claimed all her brothers’ and sisters’ children as her own. She had many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren, and while not all are listed by name, know that she held each one of you close to her heart.
She is preceded in death by her husband Lafe Soldierwolf; parents Charles and Julia Whitedirt; son Leonard (Bosco) Whitedirt; grandchildren Dennis Whitedirt and Susan Mae Whitedirt; and siblings Mae Whitedirt, Leona Littlewolf, Pat Whitedirt, Mari Walkslast, Lucy Littlewhiteman, Lena Sooktis, and Gilbert Whitedirt.
Families include Whitedirt, Braidedhair, Whistlingelk, Biglefthand, Tallbull, Twobulls, Yelloweyes, Tabacco, Onion, Oldelk, and her adopted Realbird family.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the Northern Cheyenne EMS, IHS staff, and the caregivers at St. Vincent Hospital for their compassion and support.
We also sincerely apologize if we’ve forgotten to mention anyone—Imogene had an extremely large and loving family, and she cherished each and every one of you.
While our hearts are heavy with sadness, we find comfort knowing that Imogene is now reunited with her best friend and beloved husband, Lafe. Their spirits are together once again, dancing among the stars.
Anonymous says
We Will Never Forget Our Relatives/Family Or Friends…. Bless You Imogene …..Prayers For Your Children . All Family
Bernice Seminole says
My sincerest condolences to her family, friends & community. You were a good friend to me when I lived there. I’ll never forget you my friend. Journey well.
Tamera Sooktismann says
Oh aunty….you was A sweet funny caring lady. Thank you for always being there for my kids/grandkids. I cherished every moment I got to spend with you. I miss our Sonny boy “Bosco” so much. Tell him I said hey. Watch over us. Pray for us. Protect us…I will miss you and uncle…life is scary for us now days. We no longer have any of grandma and grandpas children here with be with us….and to pray for us(tears). This is so hard. Aunty send us hugs and prayers- we are all lost- but we will continue to do what you all taught us- to continue our prayers. Tears…….if I had one wish in this world…is that the creator grants you all to have a phone. So we can call you all…..you and uncle will be missed❤️😭 prayers to my all my siblings. 😢
Mrs. Ann Spell says
Sincere condolences for the loss of one so special in your life. Know that the smiles, laughter, and kindness Imogene shared with others will be forever remembered by all who ever met her. May her countless, beautiful memories forever warm your hearts and bring smiles to your faces, even behind tears shed. Know that death was never God’s plan (Gen. 1:28; Rom. 5:12) so he gives us hope. (Acts 24:15; Ps. 37:11,29) Cherish the hope and the memories of Imogene.
Andrita Harris says
My Deepest sympathy and condolences for the family. Imogen will miss visiting with you. Good talks, tell my parents I miss them, ready to go. Muddy Creek is GODS COUNTRY. You will be missed. PRAYERS RIP COWGIRL.
LADY BLUE says
I will miss you guys both you Lafe safe travels ❤️ 💕 💙 you and all your siblings at Muddy creek helped my dad Deyo Powell raise me and my sister we love you always ❤️