Peggy J. Redman Obituary
Peggy Jean Redman went to be with Jesus in the early morning hours of October 13, 2025, with her lifelong partner and very best friend, Earl Mortensen, by her side.
Peggy was born on February 3, 1949, in Miles City, Montana, the daughter of Charles and Kate (Hamby) Redman. Her parents often told the story of her eventful arrival and homecoming. It was during a bad winter with 36 inches of snow on the ground and the ranch was 66 miles from the nearest hospital. Charles was terrified to have them both so far from medical facilities, so in mid-January, Kate was taken to Miles City. She stayed with dear family friends, Verne and Margaret Jones until Peggy’s arrival. Kate and Peggy ended up staying in town an additional 3 ½ weeks. Charles finally hired an airplane and pilot to fly his newborn daughter and wife home to the family ranch near Ismay, Montana. When Charles finally got to hold Peggy, she was wrapped in so many blankets he couldn’t tell which end was her head and which was her feet!
Peggy grew up on the family ranch 16 miles southeast of Ismay, Montana. She attended Spring Creek Country School for grades 1-7. After that, she went to Plevna, Montana for 8th grade and all four years of high school. Following graduation, she enrolled in Miles Community College for two years. She then transferred to Eastern Montana College, graduating in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. Her first, last, and only teaching position took her to Forsyth, Montana where she taught third grade for 38 years. All of her students were “her kids” and she continued to follow, encourage, and pray for them even after they left her classroom. She retired in May of 2008, but that retirement only lasted 3 ½ months! That fall, she went back to Forsyth Elementary School as a teacher’s aide. She loved working for Beverly Buckalew and KariLea Hutchins. Real retirement came in 2011, following the death of her mom and declining health of her dad.
Peggy loved the “real” retirement stage of her life and being able to devote even more time to helping those in need. She was affectionately known as “the card lady”, rarely missing a chance to send a birthday, anniversary, get well, or sympathy card. She was a selfless, caring woman who always thought of others before herself. Peggy lived out the love of Christ, not just in her spoken and written words, but also by her actions and commitment to prayer.
In her spare time, Peggy’s favorite thing to do was to spend time with her family and friends. She frequently remarked that the greatest blessings in her life were her strong faith, wonderful family and fantastic friends. She also loved to read her Bible, bake, attend rodeos, and travel to new places.
Life here on earth will never be the same without our dear Peggy, but we rejoice in the fact that she is with her Savior and reunited with the family and friends that she missed so much. Preceding her in death were her mother, father, and beloved sister, Marilyn Kelly. Peggy is survived by her lifelong partner, Earl Mortensen of Forsyth, Earl’s daughter, Tanya (Rod) Fitch of Seattle, WA, brother-in-law, Rod Kelly of Ismay, MT, two nephews, Shawn (Candice) Kelly of Miles City, MT and Troy Kelly of the family ranch at Ismay, MT. She is also survived by the “lights of her life”, a great niece, Rachel Kelly (Dalton) and great nephew, Ryan Kelly, both of Miles City, MT. Extended family members include the Berzel, Crane, and Knuths families, and Karen Morris.
Family will be receiving friends on Monday, October 20, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth, MT. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth, MT, with Pastor Daniel Sand officiating.
Memorials can be made to Flowing River Fellowship in Forsyth, MT or to the charity of your choice.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Monday October 20, 2025
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Lane
Forsyth, Montana 59327
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Tuesday October 21, 2025
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Lane
Forsyth, Montana 59327
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Tuesday October 21, 2025
Forsyth Cemetery
Forsyth, Montana 59327
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Monday October 20, 2025
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Lane
Forsyth, Montana 59327
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Tuesday October 21, 2025
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Lane
Forsyth, Montana 59327
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Tuesday October 21, 2025
Forsyth Cemetery
Forsyth, Montana 59327
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Stan Buckalew says
Peggy was a wonderful, kind lady. She visited Beverly many times while Bev was suffering from cancer herself. I am certain that they are both together in heaven.
Lynn Tompkins says
Peggy was a lovely, gracious, kind and caring person. Her former students talk about “Miss Redland” in a way that you know how much they loved and respected her. Her smile lit up a room and her laugh made you join her. So sorry to lose her.
Anita Kurtz says
What a beautiful picture of a true friend – so beautiful on the inside also. Peggy certainly will be in the hearts and memories of all the children she taught with love and respect. Peggy took care of and prayed for so many people in their hour of need. I worked with her and she was a special friend for over 54 years. After her retirement, she moved to River View Villa. She loved her new home and friends. We helped each other survie the COVID isolation times. Gene was just put in the NH and we were so thankful to walk two miles every morning together sharing our problems and reminicing about the good times. Losing her sister so suddenly was really hard on her and I know she is with her and their parents now in Heaven I will always cherish the memories of our times together. My heart and prayers go out to you Earl and family. She so loved each of you and was so proud of her neices and nephews.
Love and prayers, Anita
Lin koerper says
Peggy was such a sweet person. I remember her from the Wesleyan Church and as a teacher when my boys went to Forsyth grade school. Always smiling and upbeat. She willed be missed in our community.
Diana Robinette says
Peggy was a very sweet, courteous lady. She was such a joy to visit with and had time to visit with you.. I send my condolences and prayers to the family and special prayers and condolence. to Earl Mortenson.
Bill and Joby Parker says
Peggy was truly a wonderful and faithful friend and co-worker. We knew each other over a span of 52 years when I came to Forsyth to teach school. She was an excellent teacher and loved her students dearly. I’m sure they will also fondly remember her.. She was a great supporter of the Forsyth community and always willing to help.
Her sense of humor and wit was the best I’ve ever known She could make me laugh in the best and worst situations. Peggy’s family and friends meant everything to her. She loved them deeply and would do anything for them. Her sickness and suffering at the end showed her great courage and strong faith in God. Rest in peace my dear sweet friend, your smiling face will be forever greatly missed.
Carol Moore says
Earl,
We have many fond memories of Peggy. She taught my boys in Forsyth schools. Had plenty of fun at VFW parties. My prayers are with you. She was so kind to everyone. I have one of her hand written recipes for “funeral potatoes.”
Ron and Carol Moore
Vickie krause says
Peggy was always there for you. She went miles to help. Beautiful person inside & out. She will me missed by many and I am so grateful our paths had crossed. So sad to hear of her passing.
Karsyn March says
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of Peggy. She truly was a wonderful lady who touched so many hearts with her kindness and gentle spirit! The world was brighter with her in it, and she’ll be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. I will be thinking about you all in the days to come!
Sending love and prayers!❤️
Teryl Tatro and Wade Cole says
We are so sad to hear of Peggy’s passing. When my Mom was sick there wasn’t a week that went by that Peggy would drop by with a beautiful card of encouragement for her. We so appreciated that! Prayers for Earl and her family…
Denise (Phillips) Carranza says
Miss Redman was my 3rd grade teacher. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. My condolences to her family and friends. She made such an impression on me as a young girl. I moved from Forsyth after 4th grade but would return to visit family. It was such a joy to run into her in Forsyth and I was so thrilled that she remembered me. Miss Redman was a very positive role model for many young girls and boys through the years. Rest in joy Miss Redman, you certainly brought joy to the Forsyth community.
Robert E. Burkle says
We were very saddened when we were notified of Peggy’s death. Peggy was in our class of 1966 at Plevna, Montana High School. Peggy was always respectful and courteous. She liked to have a good time but always in reason. Peggy loved to smile and enjoyed life to its fullest. To say the least, we’ll miss her and her positive attitudes to those in her class. Family, we are sorry for your loss! We pray that the good Lord will be your salvation, comfort and peace. God Bless!
Bobbi L Vannattan says
I will truly miss Ms. Redman. She was one of a few very amazing and impactful teachers that I absolutely loved in school in 3rd grade, again when she taught my oldest son in 3rd grade and always throughout the years. She always had a beautiful smile and a warm hello whenever I saw her out and about in town. I will always love this lady and I am so sorry for her loss to her family and this community. She was an amazing lady and one of the best teachers ever! Heaven has gained a wonderful angel.
Love and Hugs.
Bobbi
Carolyn E Hays says
My deepest sympathies to Earl and Peggy’s family. She was such a kind unassuming person. I know she will be missed by you and the community. May God hold you in his hands and give you comfort as you grieve.
Carolyn (Cooky Johnson) Hays
Kirk Nathan Leinwand says
Ms. Redman was my 3rd grade teacher. I remember her being a very caring person and an excellent teacher. In junior high I started mowing Ms. Redmans lawn . She always had something for me to drink, and asked me how my siblings were doing. She always made me feel special in her classroom and when I worked for her. In high school I had the opportunity to work with Earl. Really enjoyed break and coffe times talking with him also.Between the two of them I dont know if I’ve ever met nicer people. The last time I had a chance to see Peggy was at my dad’s celebration of life. So thankful they took the time to come and visit. A very special lady who I was lucky enough to know. Rest well
Geraldene cooper says
Peggy and i have been friends for years. We first met as coworkers,as teachers, in Forsyth. I will miss her wit and the sayings she would come up with. I don’t think i have ever met a more humble, caring and honest person. My sincere wishes to Earl and Peggy”s family at this sad time. God has another angle!
Kristina Lee says
Miss Redman was always one of my favorite teachers. She was the kind of teacher who was strict but in a way that was fair and brought the best out of her students. I know I was lucky to have her as a teacher.
Diane Welbes says
So sorry to see this–I went to Jr. College with Peggy and we always kept in touch since then. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Jennifer Ferguson Johnson says
My heart is so sad to hear and see that Peggy passed away. She will always be Miss Redman. She was a wonderful, sweet, loving lady. And she will be missed so much around this town. Sending all of her friends and family love and hugs.
Jennifer Ferguson Johnson says
Miss Peggy Redman, you were such a wonderful, sweet, loving lady and an awesome teacher. Every time I saw you around town it was so wonderful to talk to you and visit with you. You will be missed by so many people in this town. Love you.
Rebecca Cuckie says
Condolences to Peggy and Earls families.. Peggy was a wonderful person and friend . She is finally home with Jesus and her many friends and family.A faithful servant and a job well done🥰
Rita Rowe-Watson says
Peggy was such a special person. Our lives were richer because of her. My condolences to Earl and Peggy’s family.
Sherry Oster says
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Peggy. Her kind heart and laugh will definitely be missed on this earth! Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal.
My sincere sympathy to all of Peggy’s family and friends.🙏
Davie (Cox) Baggett says
I was deeply saddened to hear of Ms. Redman’s passing. As with others, she was my 3rd-grade teacher and made a lasting impression on me – kind, funny, and full of encouragement.
I last saw her at my grandmother’s funeral, where she shared the most beautiful memories and funny stories about their friendship. Her words brought such comfort that day and reminded me how special she truly was, someone who could bring light and laughter even in difficult moments.
She will always be remembered with great affection and gratitude. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Earl, and with all who loved her. May her warmth and humor continue to live on in every story shared.🌷
Macque Cozzens Bohleen says
I will always remember Peggy standing at the doorway of her classroom, she always had a smile and a kind heart! I am sorry I won’t be able to attend the funeral as I am traveling, but Miss Redman will always hold a special place in my heart 💜
Bill and Rita FitzGerald says
How the world will miss that infectious laugh that Peggy had when she was tickled! Peggy loved her students and they loved her—what’s not to love! Peggy was a rare treasure who asked for the help of parents who had a student that needed something extra. She would listen to parents and work with them, making education a joint task. She has met our Savior, Jesus and living in the place he went to make for her 🙏🌈🙏.
Earl, prayers for you as you adjust not having Peggy.
Vonnie Becker says
My condolences and prayers go out to Peggy’s family and friends. I did not know her personally, but she taught many of my nieces and nephews. She was an extraordinary teacher and caring person. Rest in eternal peace.
Jerianne and Craig Dunnam says
I met Peggy and Marilyn at Miles Community College and have considered them two of my favorite friends ever since. I miss their kindness, laughter and smiling faces already.
Dave and Donna Lloyd says
Peggy’s was a fine teacher and a real caring person. Donna and I liked her and Earl and always enjoyed visiting with them when we met. Condolences to you, Earl and the families.
TK Kantner says
She gave a wild child from the Navajo reservation structure and patience to figure things out. She had a system for discipline that included initials on the board as first warning, a circle around them as a second warning and a trip to see Gene Kurtz or Diane Moon after that. I was such an ornery kid, Peggy is the reason everyone calls me TK. My initials were constantly on the board. She helped me so much, I am grateful to have had her influence in my life. My condolences and prayers to her Family and loved ones.
Joan Leinwand says
Sending my condolences to family and friends. Just a wonderful woman and teacher. Blessings Earl.
Rocky and Kay Berdahl says
Earl and Peggy’s family,
Our sincere condolences to you. So very sorry for your loss.
Karen Morris says
I’ve never been good at saying good-bye, so I’ll just say I’ll be seeing you on the other side. We’ve shared laughter, as well as tears (never as bad because they were shared) and I confess I wasn’t really ready (even though I knew the day was coming). Peggy was a true light in the world. Sadly, my baling twine, duck tape, and fencing wire cannot fix a broken heart. There is, however, comfort in the memories and I know we’ll be together again some day. God speed.
jackie dassinger says
Peggy — she was such a light in my life. She was my co-3rd grade teacher when she came to Forsyth and we “meshed” like old friends both professionally and personally immediately. We knew we could count on each other no matter “what”. We helped each other with life problems and shared so many laughs and stories through all these years. All our birthdays, Christmas, etc. We both loved our jobs and “our kids”. I am so glad she had “happy” with Earl (lucky guy). How I will always miss my precious, priceless friend. Jackie Dassinger
Sandy and Pat Anderson says
We are so sorry to hear of Peggy’s passing. She had such a kind heart and great laugh. Our thoughts and prayers for all of her family.
Linda Howard says
Peggy was my college roommate. We clicked right from the beginning as we both came from ag backgrounds and small communities. Peggy was a very conscientious student always taking her studies very seriously. We had some wonderful laughs over dorm events., and over the years, when we ran into each other, we picked up right where we left off. I heard a lot about Marilyn and her family. She adored all of them. I am very saddened that we have lost her, but I know our Dear Lord is taking good care of our Peggy. My heartfelt condolences to Earl and her family members. ❤️
DeDe Hause says
Sorry to hear of Peggy’s passing 😢
Connie Brown says
Peggy was like a breath of fresh air with her smile and laughter. Such a Christian lady! She will truly be missed by many on earth but joins a band of Heavenly Angels!
Darrell Brabec says
Prayers for Peggy’s family and friends. Had the pleasure of working with her for eight years while teaching in Forsyth. Always a great co-worker and friend inspired many young students. Sorry I won’t be able to make her service.
Darryl Redman says
Peggy was my beloved cousin and will be missed by our entire family. There are a lot of memories growing up when we visited out at the ranch and fun times. I had the fortune of being able to visit her periodically over the years and of course she always kept us posted with Christmas cards. I always appreciated the type of person she was and how honorably she lived her life. She loved Forsyth from the time she moved there after college and never left. Being the last of her family, it is with heavy hearts that we have to say good-bye to her. We will always remember her fondly.
Dorothy Green says
Peggy and Marilyn were my first friends. We were neighbors (7 miles apart) and nearly the same age. Aww the memories. It’s hard to say goodbye. 🥲🥲 I put up a picture of my second birthday party……us three girls in the front row.
Dotti
Doug & Cherie Heser says
Our sympathy is with Peggy’s family and Earl. She was a wonderful teacher with a great reputation, strict but so loving. And she was a good friend. We especially enjoyed working with her to put on a 75th birthday party for Earl, Doug & Jim Larsen. Lots of laughs and good times. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Dianne Hirschkorn (Seekins) says
Aunt Peggy was such a kind and loving person. I have so many wonderful memories of visiting during family vacations — she always made everyone feel welcome. Her love and devotion to Uncle Earl and his love for her was/is truly beautiful. She was such a special person, and I’ll always cherish her gentle heart. She will be dearly missed and always remembered with love. Knowing she is now with mom and dad gives me comfort; love you Aunt Peggy ❤️
Geraldine Seekins says
I just wanted to say how loving 🥰 and kind Aunt Peggy was to me and my children. I will miss her hilarious laugh and warm smile. Tell Mom and Dad I said hello and see you one day in heaven.