Our brother, Jay Charles Littlewolf, began his journey July 5, 2021, to be with the “Great Spirit,” and with the loved ones who went before him. His Indian name was O’komohtameohtsestse “Walking Coyote,” given to him by his uncle Floyd Waters, Sr. Jay is the sixth generation of Chiefs Dull Knife and Littlewolf and a member of the Chief’s Society.
He was born September 1, 1959, in Oakland, CA, the son of Don Littlewolf & Kitty Belle Gillespie; paternal grandparents, Charles Littlewolf & Annie Limpy; and maternal grandparents, John Gillespie & Verda Parker. Jay’s parents were participants in the Indian Relocation Act from 1958 to December 1967. His family then left the big city and returned to Busby, MT when he was eight years old. He started third grade at Busby and graduated as the 1977 Class Valedictorian.
During his early years he enjoyed hunting with his dad, riding his ten-speed bike with his childhood friends and relatives, Leroy Pine Jr., Ivan Russell, and Quinton King Fisher. He played little league and babe ruth baseball as a pitcher and first-baseman, liked berry picking, hiking, camping, and get-togethers with the family.
Jay wrestled his freshman and sophomore years of high school, but a highlight was when the Busby School chose him to go on a trip to the World’s Fair in Seattle, WA. One of his life passions was sparked by his respected teacher and long-time friend Ray Mueller, who had him join the yearbook staff as the photographer. He bought his first camera and set off to the dark room to develop his photographs, and never turned back.
After High School he enrolled at Montana State University Bozeman. One spring break he and some friends drove all the way to New York City to visit Ray, attended a David Letterman Show, then drove all the way back in record time. Jay graduated of course, with a Bachelor’s in Film and Television with an emphasis in photography and photojournalism. Soon he took professional photographs for weddings, graduations, and other special occasions. Up until his death he was still snapping away on his camera.
At a young age Jay developed a love for table-tennis (ping-pong) playing with his dad, sisters and friends. He played all through high school, and in college played intramurals all four years and qualified two times for nationals placing first in one of those years. He was so competitive that one time he broke his ankle, diving for the ball at the net. Rodney Trahan was one of his protégées and Jay mentored him to be the best. They had a lot of competitive games between them!
Jay always enjoyed traveling. A major highlight in his life was the opportunity in 1984 to travel to Europe as an exchange student with other tribal students from the seven reservations of Montana. He toured Paris, Monaco, various castles and had lots of steps to climb, once again with a broken foot in a cast. One close friend, Michelle Monroe, assisted him everywhere they went. Everyone enjoyed his humorous stories which had the whole group laughing all the time.
Another trip Jay ventured on was during his senior year of college as an exchange student to Oslo, Norway. He attended the University of Oslo for eight weeks, spent time touring the area and doing hands-on school assignments. Upon his return he would speak like he had the accent of a Norwegian, a fascination for him. That trip was something he really cherished.
In his later years he enjoyed playing men’s and co-ed softball with his friends, Debbie & John Charette, and Jana Waters. They had a lot of fun on the softball circuit and often talked about his escapades.
Jay held various job titles after graduating college. He came back to the Northern Cheyenne reservation and dedicated the next 40+ years to the Tribe, retiring in July of 2019. His first employment was working with the Follow-Through Program. He then spent several years with the GED Program, working with Juanita “T-T” Lonebear, as well as Cheyenne Housing. He went on to get the necessary training to be a dialysis technician for his people at Lame Deer, so they did not have to take the long trip to Billings for treatment.
Finally, Jay dedicated 30 years to the Northern Cheyenne Tribe as the Quality Program Administrator working alongside his great and close friends, Jason Whiteman Sr, Scott Williams, Bill Neumueller, and aide Shanny Spang-Gion. They worked hard and secured a Class 1 Air Quality Status, the first tribal nation in the United States to do so. Jay also brought in great sums of money for the Tribe through grants and proposals, so he was a protector of Mother Earth, fighting for our land as our ancestors did.
His last years were spent visiting and looking after and teasing relatives like Alicia Littlewolf and her daughters, the Bill Parker family and their two young ones, and brought them gifts “just because.” He enjoyed visiting with Donald “Nick” Parker and Bertha Freeman (adopted Grandma) hearing all the old stories. He liked teasing her daughter Christine Freeman in a good way. Jay also worked as the Northern Cheyenne Census Recruiter collaborating with his close friend and neighbor Jason Small, our state representative. Jay wanted to get out the vote so our tribe could be empowered and let their voices be heard. He enjoyed going to the Lighthouse Pentecostal Church in Busby and loved when they had potlucks.
Jay is survived by his sisters Pam (Chris), Dawn (Rickson Keams), as well as nieces and nephews, Taylor, Tynesha, Jayden, Kyra. and great-grandnephew Laban. Uncles Leonard Littlewolf, sister-cousins Alysha and Erica Littlewolf; nieces Neveah, Nyla, Norah, and Alana. His great-uncle Donald “Nick” Parker Family: Bill (Natalie), Bob, Karen(Dennis), and Susan; adopted mom, Gloria Waters.
Our brother and uncle, we will miss you. You may be gone and out of sight, but never out of our hearts and memories. Philippians 17:17. “A Friend loveth at all times.”
*****At the request of the family, please wear a mask at the service and social distance. *****
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
8:00 PM
Wednesday July 21, 2021
Busby Pentecostal Church
Busby, Montana 59016
Funeral Service
1:00 PM
Thursday July 22, 2021
Busby Pentecostal Church
Busby, Montana 59016
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Thursday July 22, 2021
Busby Cemetery
Busby, Montana 59016
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
8:00 PM
Wednesday July 21, 2021
Busby Pentecostal Church
Busby, Montana 59016
Funeral Service
1:00 PM
Thursday July 22, 2021
Busby Pentecostal Church
Busby, Montana 59016
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Thursday July 22, 2021
Busby Cemetery
Busby, Montana 59016
Share
Susan Parker Swanz says
Please find peace knowing that Jay is with Kitty and all those loved ones that went to the other camp previously. Comforting hugs sent to you!
Karen Duty says
I will always remember Jay’s smiling face, kindness and generosity. He had such a wonderful warm laugh that is etched in my mind with his beautiful face.
Peace be with you my wonderful cousin.
Sue Parker says
Seeing Jay was always a bright spot in my day. RIP friend.
ROBERT LITTLE WOLF says
TO THE FAMILY OF JAY LITTLEWOLF, THE NORTHERN CHEYENNE CHIEF COUNCIL EXTEND THEIR CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS FOR STRENGTH DURING THIS MOST SAD, SORROWFUL AND MOURNFUL TIME FOR THE LOSS OF A BELOVED LOVE ONE.
Debbi Beartusk Dove says
I was blessed to have worked with Jay through our respective jobs with the Colstrip Power Plant and the Tribe. Jay was a gentle soul; fair minded, funny and just a pleasure to be around. My condolences to Pam and Dawn.
Alaina Buffalo Spirit says
Jay was a dear, caring friend. He often invited friends to his home for delicious dinners. He stayed in contact with me by phone during the pandemic to check on me, asking if I’m doing ok. I often worried about him if I didn’t hear from him, so I would call him. He’d answer the phone saying, “I’m doing good.” I believe that Jay was quite lonely, but he kept to himself and never complained. He often talked about his sisters Dawn and Pam. He’d share that he bought them early Christmas presents and he was pretty proud of how their lives were happy. I will miss my dear friend Jay, Rest in Paradise and say hello to your precious mom Kitty. 🌷
Norma Bixby says
Jay was a special friend. Always smiling and with a good word. Always there with helpful advice when asked a questions about an issue. Air Quality was his passion. He was always concerned about the air that the Northern Cheyenne Tribe was breathing and was a soldier in protecting our class one air. He will be missed greatly. Rest in Peace Jay, you are now watching over us forever.
Donovan Taylor says
I recall when me and my father visited Jay and Don with Kittie, we all ate with the family and Jay, requested that they bring in his favorite, “American Cheese” I would always tease him about that, and he would smile & laugh when I remind him, he a very bright intellectual person, I’m sure he will find peace in all his professional endeavors for the tribe, RIP Jay.
Jason S Walker says
Jay was a good friend and a mentor to me. His knowledge and expertise he had were a great asset to all “airheads”. It was great to read the life of jay, his world travels and all of his accomplishments. It is an honor to call Jay my friend and colleague (Airhead). Travel well my friend, your calls and laughs will be missed but not forgotten.
Kermit C Snow says
My Condolences to the Family. I met Jay 21 years ago after just getting hired and attending my first Region 8 Air Quality meeting in Colstrip. We became good friends and he was very helpful when I asked for his help with my program. His knowledge was spread out to all in Indian Country. The honors he & his department received were well earned. He put his heart into all he accomplished. His sense of humor was great to be around, he made everyone laugh and enjoy his company, something that will be missed dearly, but never forgotten. It was an honor to not only work with Jay, but a Great Honor to call him a Friend. The Airheads have lost a great Man, Colleague, and Friend who will be missed by his fellow Airheads, of which I am greatly Honored to be a part of. Fly high Brother, until we meet again. Aho
Farshid Farsi says
I was deeply saddened to hear of passing of my dear friend Jay. What a fine human being with a big heart he was. I got to know Jay in the early 90s when we enrolled in one of Institute for Tribal Professional Environmental Professionals. Jay was deeply knowledgeable in Tribal Air Quality Management. He had a great and unique sense of humor. It was fun to be around Jay. He mentored a large number of tribal airheads.
I am honored to call Jay a friend. I am going to miss jay’s phone calls post retirement. Rest in piece m friend.
My condolences to Jay’s family and friends.
Ray Mueller says
Jay is on my mind today especially, as his life is celebrated in Busby. He was compassionate and wise, a friendly and generous man with a wonderful sense of humor. To me he was not only a student of mine at Busby School in the mid-seventies, he became a lifelong friend, despite my living in NY and NJ ever since. I always enjoyed his many phone calls and especially his visit out to see me and my family (and David Letterman!) in 1995. I appreciated his warm hospitality when my son and I stayed with him in Busby when we visited in 2004 to record Nancy Whitedirt and celebrate the White River Cheyenne Mennonite Church centennial. He kept me informed of what was going on in Busby and Lame Deer, and I will miss that. But much more, I’ll miss his laughter, his thoughts, and his friendship. May God’s love and compassion, and our awareness that Jay is in God’s presence, be a source of comfort to Pam, Dawn, and all who were blessed to know him.
Ruth Risingsun Phillips says
My deepest condolences to Pam, Dawn, and the rest of Jays family. I remember Jay from high school, and seeing him with a camera always hanging around his neck. He took some good pics for the year book.
Nancy Rae Velarde Gibson says
Jay led such a beautiful life! Many things I didn’t know about him but some I did as he would share with me at ITEP and other meetings or conferences. One thing I did and still do know, is he had a heart of gold, an illuminating smile and strong chief spirit. I am so thankful for time with him and that he is now safe and sound in Paradise! Enjoy Jay! seeya again my friend!
Judy Silversmith says
Prayers for the Littlewolf family
Woods Family says
I first met Jay when he hired me as his Air Quality Data Tech & Admin Assistant for our tribe in 2003. He was a great mentor in AQ program & became a close friend. In my work travels, I met our “Airhead family” & I overheard many stories about Jay from them. All great & hilarious stories needless to say. I swear he loved to pester & give me a hard time when he could. It was annoying sometimes I won’t lie. But Jay would check in on me & my family from to time. He would ask how’s your lil’ piece of hardwood wood doing? He was referring to my daughter bc her name is Aspen Woods lol. Jay had such great humor & was so goofy! I could go on & on but I will miss you. Until we meet again RIP & Journey well my friend. Region 8 Rocks!
Shanny Spang Gion & Family says
My heartfelt condolences to Jay’s sisters Pam and Dawn & extended family. I am in disbelief that Jay has gone to the other side camp. I was fortunate to work with Jay for many years at the Tribe and we became good friends. He was a kind human being with a wicked sense of humor and we often shared lunch together, usually pizza from Pastor Dean’s wife’s bakery. We continued to stay in touch after his retirement and after I left my work for the Tribe. Lots of good memories of our work for the Tribe – digging out of snow drifts out in the field, stopping to look at plants, talking about MSU and the Bobcats football season, and lots of discussion about all things environmental. We held many discussions about random things too and when we disagreed, to convince me of his point, he always began with “Well, see…” and then would just laugh when we came to an impasse (probably laughing AT me, haha!). My family, sisters and I visited him on “The Ranch” up Rosebud Creek many times – a beautiful place and one of the few remaining on the creek that hasn’t been converted to agriculture (Jay had an awesome spot for picking plums!). He was a wonderful host but was never afraid to put us to work either! We’d help with yard chores or whatever he might’ve needed done. We would tease him that we were guests but really, we were happy to help in that way. I will dearly miss his friendship, miss the phone calls and checking up on each other. I am so very sorry that I can’t be there today to celebrate your life and help lay you to rest. I am grateful to have shared part of your life’s journey with you and to witness all the great work you’ve done. Rest In Peace Jay.
Gail (Stearns) Bird says
R.I.P My friend. My student. My extended family. Loved your visits to Arizona! Prayers and Love.
Linda Littlewolf says
I am already missing my nephew Jay. I looked forward to his ‘just checking in’ phone calls and visits. We would get caught up on the news, ‘solve’ the problems of the world, and he would always manage to get in a few of his quirky jokes. Family was very important to Jay and he was very important to our family. He rarely missed a get-together or celebration and helped create so many great memories through the years. Somehow, he always remembered birthdays and special occasions and would show up to dinners with his famous empty tupperware containers, some funny stories, and alot of teasing. He never forgot any of us and I will always remember his generosity, especially to my grandchildren. He achieved many things in his life – his school honors and travels, his exceptional photography, his respected work particularly in air quality are just a few. I was proud of him for all of his accomplishments, his independence, and for the kind and mindful man he grew up to be. Rest well nephew. But for Covid, I would be there to help remember and celebrate your life. I will see you again someday. Auntie Linda.
Patricia (Patty) Heinicke says
I am so sad to hear of Jay’s passing. Thank you for this obituary; it’s wonderful to read about his life and see his smile again. Today I’m praying for Dawn and Pam and everyone grieving him.
Rich Peterson says
So sorry to hear about Jay. I was in the group of Native students who traveled around France and Monaco in 1984. That’s how I got to know Jay. We all had fun trying out new foods, sharing our cultures with the French people and exploring all over. He was a good person. Rest easy.
Pamela Chadwick (Heinicke) says
My thoughts are with the Littlewolf family today. Jay was the cool big brother to my two good childhood pals, Pam and Dawnie. He had his camera with him constantly. He always had a smile for this puny little white girl hanging around his house. Rest peacefully Jay. Take some good pics where you are.
Ryan Callison says
First time time i met Jay i was a fellow travellor working for Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma. We met at an air quality meeting in Minnesota i believe; from then on i’d see him all over the states at meetings and conferences; representing tribal paople with the utmost compassion and dignity. Jay alway had an aurora of ‘goodness’ that surounded him. i never heard him say a negative word and was always positive. i could tell he we a person of extreme faith that carried him through life. Me, Him , Jason Walker, Randy Ashley, Ondrea Barber and dozens more (abd) that i know im leaving off loved him dearly and he will be greatly missed. Imagine the pictures he is taking right now!, rest easy my friend; Ryan Callison, Cherokee Tribal Member, Oklahoma
Damion Killsback says
I can’t believe cousin Jay has journeyed to the spirit world so soon! I will always remember you and your kindness to me and my brothers. One memory I is being the young bachelor you were back in the day, when you gave me 2 handfuls of potato chips when we stopped by to trick or treat!
Rest In Peace cuz.
Matt Trott (B. G.) says
Jay was one of the first people I met when I went to MSU in 1977. We were both freshmen living in Langford Hall. He was a one of a kind guy. He had a wonderful laugh and also a very serious side. He’s the only person from my college days that stayed in constant touch. I don’t think we went more than a month without talking on the phone. I even stopped into Lame Deer a few times in my travels around Montana and took him to lunch at the cafeteria. I think the last time we talked must have been toward the end of June. It had been a while since we talked and I was concerned about the fires I had heard were burning in the Lame Deer/Busby area so I tried calling him several weeks ago. It was unlike him to not call back. I again grew concerned and it wasn’t until last night that I found out he had passed away last month. What a shock to learn my deer friend was gone. His birthday is in a few days and I was looking forward to calling him and wishing him a happy birthday. We had been talking about when the best age would be to take social security and he told me he was going to start taking it ASAP and he told me to do the same. I think I’ll take your advice good friend and start taking it sooner than later. I remember when he won the ping-pong championship during those college days. He was a very impressive individual in many ways. I know he enjoyed attending church there in Busby and singing hymns and hearing the gospel. He was a true friend whose passing has left a big hole in my life. Thanks Jay for all the good memories. Psalm 23
Rita Keams Yazzie says
Our condolences to Pam, Dawn and extended family. You lost a warrior who was stepping up to fight to keep Mother Earth and the Air Native people breathe safely. Family and friends who knew him well will surely miss him. May the Lord bless you and keep you strong.
David Valentine says
As I age I’ve been trying to find out what happened to my friends that I have lost touch with through the years. I was saddened to learn of Jay’s passing. I met him at MSU when we were dorm mates. I remember exlporing the back roads around Bozeman in my ’65 Chevy Biscayne and generally goofing off. I was thinking of his infectious smile and now I will only see it in my memory.