Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes

Serving families in the Miles City, Forsyth, Lame Deer, Broadus, Circle, Jordan and Terry areas for three generations.

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Miles City: 406-232-4457 — Forsyth: 406-346-2311

In Memory Of

Nancy Espy, age 93, of Broadus.

July 6, 1927 – October 12, 2020

Mary Nancy Hegelund Espy, 93, passed away at the Powder River Manor, October 12, 2020.

Nancy was born July 6, 1927, in Phoenix, Arizona, to parents, Carl Hegelund and Lovenia Crawford Hegelund. She attended school in Phoenix and later went to Loretta Academy in El Paso, Texas. Jim Espy came to Loretta Academy to visit another girl. A really cute girl opened the door and he met Mary (Nancy). In 1944, her parents opened a café in Fort Davis, Texas. During the summer, she worked at the café, where she noticed and was noticed by a very handsome young man, Jim Espy. He knew too many Marys  so he started calling her Nancy.  Her Texas family still calls her Mary!   Following a short courtship,  Jim and Nancy were married in Fort Davis, Texas. Nancy always said that it was love at first  sight and right for us, but we would advise kids to grow up a little before taking on marriage. Jim and Nancy began their devoted 76- year marriage on a ranch in Fort Davis. They did not have electricity but had a telephone.  They loved it! They fed cake to the cattle from a wagon, and Nancy even learned to drive the team. With the birth of their first child, they realized that they would need another business if  they were  to pursue their dream of owning their own ranch. Jim started working in construction in Texas,  New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada. While all these cross country moves were going on, Nancy said, “I did as I was directed.  I went forth and multiplied 5 times in as many years and our family grew, we were truly blessed with our five children, Cam, Nancy, Jim, Katy and Hugh.” Jim worked for several years building the business and thought  he had made enough money to purchase a ranch which  was near Boyes, Montana. That move was truly an adjustment for Nancy!

No modern facilities, a two bedroom log home, 10 miles to Boyes and 5 energetic kids. But the family loved it and Nancy was a true pioneer woman,  making the best of everything  and always putting family first.  Nancy was an outstanding wife and mother, but she was way more than that. She supported her family in all their activities, was active in school functions, FFA, FHA and 4-H clubs. Nancy was an active public servant not only locally in Boyes  and Broadus, but also at state and  national levels.  She was actively involved as an organizing member of W.I.F.E. (Women involved in Farm Economics).  In the 1980’s, Nancy and a few friends developed and produced Montana Ranch Beef and it was sold in local stores in Montana. Nancy was one of several members traveling to Washington, D.C. to meet with Legislators and Senators.  They even met President Ronald Reagan in the Oval Office!  Nancy was a true trail blazer!  Nancy was appointed by five non-partisan governors to serve on state boards and committees, including  18 years on the Montana State Board of Livestock and the Livestock Brand Board Committee. She also served on the Board of Transportation for twelve  years .  Nancy also served as a Powder River County Commissioner. They both were active for many years in the Montana Stock Growers and Montana Wool Growers Associations.

With her husband Jim, as her biggest fan, at her side and her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as her constant cheerleaders, she accomplished more in her lifetime than most could ever imagine. She had many accomplishments but her biggest one was that of a loving ranch wife, mother and grandmother. Married at 17 and mostly self–educated, she set out to make her life, a life of purpose. AND she did!!

Mary Nancy Espy is survived by her loving husband, Jim of Broadus. Children: Cam Emmons, her children, Ruston (Tracy), Debbie (Andrew) Moerman, Richard (Lauren) and Jennifer (Jason) Karnes. Nancy (Bob) Tarver, their sons, Mike, Robert (Michelle), James (Jaime); Jim (Kym) Espy, daughters, Jill (Brent) Krueger, Rebecca Espy, Amber (Kameron) Rolfson, son, Nathan; Katy (Harry) Stevenson, sons, James (Megan), Joe (Emma) and Todd; and Hugh (Hollis), sons Clay (Jaimi) and Moritz (special friend, Andrea  and daughter Sutten). Great grandchildren: Josh Emmons (Ashton), Becca Emmons Bishop (Jacob), Matthew Emmons; Brianna, Grace and Allen Moerman; Reese and Kara Emmons; Braden, Landry and Tripp Karnes; Conner, Tayler (Faith) , Wyatt and Hayden Tarver,  Whitney and  William Tarver; Griffin, Mason, Landon Krueger; Kinsey, Harper, and Clair Hinchliffe; Daylen Rolfson and Lane Slovek;  Leighton, Cooper, Quincy and Rosalie Stevenson, Mary Espy.  A great-grandson, Tilton Tarver.  Her loving sisters:  Carlene (Carl) Jasper and Anne Killinen.  Special nieces and nephews;  Terry Jean (Ray) Allen, Nancy Shely, Valerie (David) Wray, Tony (Kara) Jasper, Crystal (Todd) Mulville and their children.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, mother -in-law, Rebecca Espy, her sister and brothers-in law Kathryn and Fred Shely, Richard Killinen, and a great-nephew and niece Charles Killinen and Amy Allen.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, October 19th at 11:00 a.m.  at Faith Bible Church  in Broadus. The funeral service will be live streamed at:  http://faithbiblechurch.info/live-streaming.html.  A full obituary can be read at www.stevensonandsons.com.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Powder River Manor, Library, Boyes Community Club or a charity of choice.

Nancy’s family would like to extend a special thank you to all the staff at the Powder River Manor for the excellent care given to her and the kindness extended to Jim and family.

Service Schedule

Memorial Service

11:00 a.m.

Monday October 19, 2020

Faith Bible Church

Broadus, Montana 59317

View map

Service Schedule

Memorial Service

11:00 a.m.

Monday October 19, 2020

Faith Bible Church

Broadus, Montana 59317

View map

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Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  4. Our condolences to all of Nancy’s family. She was a grand lady.
    Jackie and Joe Schneidt

  5. One of the most kind, sweet , honest and intelligent ladies we have ever known. You will be so missed Nancy, rest in peace! Our thoughts, love and sympathy to the Espy families.

  6. Intelligent, classy, determined — we spent days together in Deadwood at Mike Madden’s trial, working for justice after he stole our cattle in ’87. Didn’t get much justice, but I sure enjoyed working with Nancy. Godspeed.

  7. I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Nancy during her tenure as a Powder River County Commissioner and beyond as the Executive Director at MACo. Her questions were always well-reasoned and thoughtful, always trying to find ways help Powder River County. She was always up for a spirited debate on policy issues and was always willing to listen to opposing views. A great lady that will be missed.

  9. Jim Espy and family so sorry for your loss. I first met Jim and Mary when I worked for Lawrence Pemberton in 1965-1966. Jim and Mary always had time to visit with me over the next fifty + years where ever we happened to meet. You have a lot of memories to hang onto. R.I.P. Mary
    Jim and Annalise Willson

  11. My heart goes out to all of you as I know how you are going to miss Nancy. She was such a light in so many lives. I always looked forward to our visits. She did so much for our county and State. Thank you Nancy go in peace. God Bless.

  12. My condolences to Jim & all the family. Nancy was a warm & lovely person. I treasure my last visit with her.

  14. Deepest sympathy to the Espy family. Got to know Nancy and Jim when she served on the Board of Livestock. She was such a strong supporter of livestock producers and also the brand inspectors. She was a class act and will be missed.

  15. My sincere condolences to Jim and families! Holly & Hugh were very special friends when I first moved to Broadus. Thinking of you all in love and prayers…

  16. What a remarkable woman Mamaw was ~ she was my inspiration to do better and be better. Her bright eyes, beautiful smile and sharp wit will be how I will forever remember her. My sincerest sympathies to Jim and family.

  17. So sorry for your loss. Deepest sympathy and condolences for the family. Prayers

    From Harris Family
    Late LEE

  18. We’re so sorry for your loss. Nancy was such a lovely woman and mother, made her mark on Powder River County and so many lives. You are in our thoughts and prayers, Espy’s. Love to all.

  19. Condolences to all of her family. Powder River County has lost a true treasure. May her memory be forever. Rest easy….you have earned it.

  21. My Mom Yvonne Snider was one of the ranch women that started Montana Ranch Beef with Nancy, they traveled extensively with that business and with WIFE, and Nancy became one of Mom’s dearest friends. Through those connections, Nancy and Jim became part of our extended family, and treated us as such as well. My heart goes out to Jim and the whole Espy clan.

  22. Nancy had a great influence over my life, guiding me and encouraging me during 4-H years. I’m so grateful to have known her. My heart goes out to the family. She was a great lady!

  23. Nancy was a grand lady and will be missed by everyone that was lucky enough to know her. Many prayers to her family.

  24. She was a force in both her family and her community. Greatest respect for a grand lady. We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you.

  25. Prayers and condolences from Earl and I to all of you. Jim, Cam, Nancy, Jim, Hugh and Katy. Your mom was always so good to our family and any time we needed anything she was they’re for us. I just keep seeing that smile of hers. I am thankful for all the memories I have of her and especially thankful for the picture I have of her, your dad and all of us . The Lord comfort you during this time of sorrow.

  26. My love, thoughts and prayers go out to Jim and family. Not a Thanksgiving goes by without thinking of the “Montana Espy” family with wonderful fond memories of the Thanksgivings shared together. Nancy was a very special lady!

  27. I have great memories of Nancy when they still lived in the El Paso area and my twin sister and I got to visit there in the summer. We did not to get to see them much after they moved to Montana except an occasional visit to Texas. Her mother-in-law, Rebecca Espy, my aunt, kept us updated on their life on the ranch in Montana and also sent photos now and then. Nancy certainly did great things in Montana. I know all you kids are very proud of her. I have a Photo of all of us cousins on their last visit to Texas o my Facebook page which I believe was in 2018. May you all cherish the memories of your wonderful Mom. God Bless each of you during this difficult time.

  28. What a grand lady and role model for us all prayer for peace for all my friends in the family

  29. A model of leadership and integrity along with love and compassion. Sincere thoughts and prayers for the family.

  30. I send my sincere condolences to Jim & all in the family! Nancy was one who was always there to make life a little easier & a whole lot better! Thanks Nancy for making my life better & for having great children! Rest in peace!

  31. Nancy was a kind and inspiring woman, and is part of many of my early memories of life in Broadus. My heartfelt condolences to her family, and prayers for comfort for all during this sad time.

  33. My heart goes out to the family. I know my husband knew her,Tom Barrett. Prayers to all.

    Colleen Barrett

  34. So sorry to hear of Nancy’s passing. Those Texas roots run deep, I remember Jim and Nancy well from my childhood, deeply respected friends of my parents who met and for a time lived in Fort Davis. Deep and sincere sympathy to you all.

  35. My Sympathy and Prayers to all of your family. So many great memories of your family. (Espy Roping) Thinking of you all.

  36. my condolences to Nancys family. She was a leader in the livestock industry. The sheep producers appreciate all the time she gave to livestock producers. My thoughts are with you Jim. Bob Gilbert.

  37. Nancy will be missed by all but I know with my many visits to the manor this year, she has gone to a better place–I remember when they first moved to Boyes/Hammond area and how friendly she was–I stayed with Cam one evening and had such a nice time–Nancy always made you feel like you were one of the family and so welcome. I remember what a kick my Dad got out of Nancy when they came to visit us–YOU ALL come see us real soon! She did a lot for our community and all of P.R. County. Hugs and Prayers to Jim and all the Espy family. Cherish your many wonderful memories.

  38. So sorry to hear this. What a sweet, kind woman. She will be so missed and remembered. My Heart breaks for Jim and the Espy family. Sending Prayers to you all.

    Tom and Cheryl Larsen
    Alzada, Mt.

  39. So very sorry to hear of Nancy’s passing…she was such a sweet lady..Hugs and Prayers to all of you..

  40. It was a pleasure to work with Nancy in the courthouse when she was our Commissioner. I always admired her ability to speak on any topic, at a moments notice, so eloquently. She was respected statewide on all of the boards that she served on, and was a friend to so many in Powder River County.

  41. This Lady… so kind, knowledgeable, and beautiful. Memories of spending days at her home at Boyes learning the perfect art of sewing for 4-H and preparing for Make it with Wool contests. What a wonderful person.. prayers of comfort for the family..🙏🙏🙏

  42. Dear Family of this Grand Lady,
    What a pleasure to spend time with this beautiful person. We were able to go with her Beef group to Washington DC in the 70’s. What a memory! And many memories as we were neighbors for years. Beautiful and Kind she was! Will surely miss seeing this angel. Prayers for all.

  43. My Condolences to the Espy Family. I remember Nancy from my years as a 4-H member in Powder River County. She always had a smile and was a very kind lady. Prayers to your family at this time of loss. Rayetta (Schonenbach) Fjell

  44. My Condolences to the Espy Family. I remember Nancy from my years as a 4-H member in Powder River County. She always had a smile and was a very kind lady. Prayers to your family at this time of loss. Rayetta (Schonenbach) Fjell

  45. The Quiroz Family sends condolences and prayers to the Espy Family. Each family member is thankful for the special memories that they each had of Nancy. She will surely be missed but not forgotten!

  46. My sincere condolences to the Espy family. A truly wonderful lady has left us. She was always involved in the community,and raised a great family. RIP

  47. Our deepest sympathy to Jim and all the family. She was a very remarkable woman with those sparkling eyes and quick wit. She was such a big asset to the Powder River Community. Hugs Jim. Loved visiting with you at the rest home. He always loved my vanilla pudding ( southern style) when I would bring one to the golf course. May your Nancy rest in peace now. All her pain has gone and she is now in the arms of the Father. God Bless you all.

  48. Jim and all family:

    So sorry to learn of Nancy’s passing. I knew her and Jim as long time loyal clients, and more importantly as good friends. Nancy was always on top of her game and knew a lot of things about a lot of things. Cute sense of humor and she and Jim reflected their southern heritage, always gracious and appreciative. I am richer for having known her all the family. Best wishes to all.

  49. We are sending our prayers and condolences. We are so very sorry for your loss. She was a lovely lady.
    Most sincerely,
    The Dean Fudge Family and the
    Philip & Megan Emmons Family

  50. Our Sincerest Condolences to you all. What a history and she lived it fully! Take your memories with you! Sending our prayers! Ed &Elaine

  51. I was honored to be able to watch the service that was live streamed from the church today. I had you all in my thoughts during this beautiful service. Love to All.

  52. Jim and family. Mother wanted to express her condolences and how she and Lew enjoyed your friendship for so many years. Nancy was a very accomplished woman. I remember her sparkle and ability to get things done and always had a smile and word for everyone. Our best to all of you. Helen and Mary Janssen

  54. Sorry to hear of the passing of your mom Nancy. She was such a nice lady. She was always good to me when I was I high school. Thoughts and prayers Betty Ann Wash Ganser

  55. 8-13-22- Just learned of Nancy Espy passing in 2020. We so admired Nancy in the time we knew Jim and Nancy when they had cattle on our ranch. Amazing couple, history to tell of their life. So glad to have known them. So sad to be writing this two years later. Our sympathy to the Espy Family.
    Janet and Thorval Jensen, Lee and Heidi Jensen, Tucker James Jensen, Hadlie Jensen and Jasper Heggum and Quade, Gunner Jensen. Tami Lynn Jensne

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