Rayetta Jean Jordan watched her last sunrise at home on Saturday, January 27, 2018. Mo Geh “Small Woman” passed away peacefully with her husband by her side until her last breath. Rayetta was born November 18, 1970 at the Crow Hospital in Crow Agency, Montana. Rayetta’s parents are Leroy and Celesta Spang. Rayetta was named after Jean Spottedwolf, her grandma Mary’s sister.
Rayetta was one of four children. She was born and raised on the Spang ranch south of Lame Deer. Rayetta attended elementary school in Lame Deer, Montana, through eighth grade promotion. Rayetta graduated high school at Colstrip High in May of 1989 as the Salutatorian. Rayetta received a Bachelor of Science degree at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana in May of 1993. Rayetta received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and Human Resources. Rayetta was a very accomplished runner in high school. Rayetta qualified and placed at the Montana State Track and Cross Country meets every year she was in High School. Rayetta always remembered her high school cross country and track years as “great times”. She was a member of an elite running team that traveled to and competed at Hong Kong and Seoul in South Korea in 1989.
Rayetta started her work career very early, working alongside her mom Celesta at the Lame Deer IGA. Rayetta also worked during the summer months at Colstrip Parks & Recreation Department (CPRD) in Colstrip. Rayetta also worked at Western Energy in Colstrip, thru which she was a recipient of a four year full ride college scholarship. Rayetta worked as a summer intern for PPL, Montana in Colstrip. Rayetta journeyed to Wichita, Kansas with her husband for a brief period and she worked at Farmland Foods for two years as a Human Resource Specialist. Rayetta still claims that she will never eat another hot dog after working there. She worked at the Stillwater Mine in Nye, Montana in Human resources. She finally found her dream job after she was hired at the St. Labre Indian School in Ashland on February 17, 1997. Rayetta was currently the Chief Operating Officer and Human Resource Director up to her passing.
Rayetta always felt privileged to be able to travel throughout the United States and Abroad during her lifetime. Rayetta had special memories of her trip to Argentina on a cultural exchange with St. Labre students. Rayetta’s passions were watching her girls play sports, hunting, native culture, being outdoors, cooking, barbequing for family and friends, entertaining family and friends at her beautiful home, gardening, snowmobiling, four wheeling around the rez, running, working out, traveling, scrap booking, taking pictures, and going to concerts, (especially Kenny Chesney).
She married the love of her life, John Jordan on August 14, 1993. The couple was married at St. Bernard’s Parish in Billings, Montana. Rayetta and John’s wedding is still being talked about to this day, fitting to the “1st song” Bad to the Bone by George Thorogood. Rayetta and John were together for thirty years, 1st meeting on a Close Up government trip in high school while in Washington, DC February of 1988. Rayetta always claimed that she married her “High School Sweetheart”. Through their life together came Shelby, Jessi, and Dani. These three girls were and always will be Rayetta’s greatest accomplishment and most important thing in her life. In Rayetta’s final days she told the girls that she would always be with them, sitting right on their left shoulder. As Dani put it, “like a parrot”. She strived to raise her girls with high standards, ethics, humility, and being respectful. She wants her girls to all go on to college, have a great career, enjoy life, and most important.. Be a proud ‘Bobcat’. John and the girls are not saying goodbye, but rather we’ll see you again mom. Thank you for the good times… we had a good ride.
Rayetta’s children are Shelby, Jessi, and Dani Jordan. Surviving sister and brother are, Vikki Cady (Troy) and Tracy Spang.
Rayetta was preceded in death by her mother, Celesta and sister, Tiffany. Rayetta has too many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins to mention. Rayetta has a very large extended family and she loved them all.
Rayetta would like to thank the Nurses at the Billings Clinic, especially within the ICC and ICU floors. Lana, Gina, Randy, Amy, Katy… and the rest. Rayetta would like to thank Sandy Olson at the Indian Health Service in Lame Deer. She would like to thank Curtis and Sally Yarlott, St. Labre Food Service, Northern Cheyenne Board of Health nurses, Margie Jordan, Ann Jordan, Vikki and Troy Cady, Patricia Rowland, Twyla Lessig, all her aunts on the Harris side, Colstrip School District, Leroy and Pam Spang.
Stevenson and Sons funeral home in Forsyth are helping with the arrangements for Rayetta. There will be a Wake Service held Friday, February 2 , 2018 at 7:00 PM at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Lame Deer, MT. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 11:00 at the Soaring Eagle Gym in St. Labre, MT. Burial will follow at the Leroy Spang Family Cemetery. Luncheon will follow burial at the St. Labre Mission Cafeteria. Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth have been entrusted with arrangements to leave condolences for the family, visit our website at www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorials are suggested to,
Rayetta Jordan Memorial Fund
1st Interstate Bank
PO Box 39
Colstrip, Montana 59323
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Friday February 2, 2018
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
630 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Mass of Christian Burial
11:00 AM
Saturday February 3, 2018
Soaring Eagle Gym
St. Labre, MT 59003
Rite of Committal
12:00 PM
Saturday February 3, 2018
Spang Family Cemetery
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Luncheon
2:00 PM
Saturday February 3, 2018
St Labre Mission Cafeteria
1000 Tongue River Rd
Ashland, MT 59003
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Friday February 2, 2018
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
630 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Mass of Christian Burial
11:00 AM
Saturday February 3, 2018
Soaring Eagle Gym
St. Labre, MT 59003
Rite of Committal
12:00 PM
Saturday February 3, 2018
Spang Family Cemetery
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Luncheon
2:00 PM
Saturday February 3, 2018
St Labre Mission Cafeteria
1000 Tongue River Rd
Ashland, MT 59003
Share
Cheryl Klemp says
So sorry to learn about Rayetta. Prayers to the family.
Lori Melotz says
RIP Ray! Your big bright smile will be missed around Campus. ? My condolences to John, Shelby, Jessi, Dani, the Spang, Harris and Jordan families. My prayers are with you.
Lori
Jennie Allies says
John, girls and family- sending you love, support and strength. Jennie and Randy Allies
Samantha Killsnight & Family says
Our Thoughts and Prayers to Rayetta’s family..
Harry and Diana Goodwin says
Sending our condolences to the family of Rayetta. We are so sorry for your loss. Keep the memories close to you heart. She will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Hugs for you all
Ann Knows His Gun & Family says
Deepest Condolences & Prayers to the family
George Birtic says
Am so sorry to hear of Rayetta’s passing. Rayetta was one of the best students I ever had in any of my classes in over 40 years. She was a student of mine at Lame Deer Public School. No matter what Rayetta attempted, it always meant quality. She always, always did the very best she could at whatever she would do. I was always very proud of Rayetta. She was an awesome student, parent, family and community member. She represented the Cheyenne very, very well, and was a good role model for the young Cheyenne. I would see Rayetta from time to time at Labre, and we would always exchange pleasantries. And she raised awesome girls, and saw them play basketball in Colstrip a few weeks ago, and noticed what a tremendous job she did raising her girls. We are proud of you Rayetta. RIP Rayetta.
Julie Matt says
We knew Rayetta from our running days as a family, and she was always special to us as my kids went to Billings Senior and Skyview and we saw her often at meets. Please accept our thoughts and prayers to her family and our families, including the Spang’s and Harris families. RIP, you were an inspiration to us all.
Andrita Harris says
My Deepest Sympathy, prayers to John, Shelby, Jessi, Dani and Family. Rae was like a sister to me and my brother; we grew up together. I know she is at peace, she will be with her mother and little sister. Heaven has gained another very beautiful Angel. Love you with all my heart. Rayetta will be in good hands, all of our family, she will not be in pain anymore,
Andrita, Dorothy, Billy, Dylan, Tegan (Lee) Harris
Shirley Skinner says
We were deeply saddened to hear of Rayetta’s passing.. she truly was one of the kindest, most generous and gentle souls I have ever known. I had the pleasure of working with her when I was in the WoRC program. She was so open and eager to work with our clients and help to place them in work experience sites. She is going to leave a huge hole not only in everyone’s heart, but in the community in general. Deepest condolences and prayers for her family.
Dino and Baby Irene Spotted Elk says
me and my daughter send our sincere condolences to Rayetta’s family she was a very kind person and always greeted me with a everyone smile. May peace and comfort be her and family.
Cindy Kuykendall (Bailey) says
My heart is aching today as I learned of Rayetta’s passing. To the Jordan and Spang families, I send you prayers for strength during such a difficult time. I remember Rayetta’s beautiful smile and laugh. She was one of the most talented athletes at Colstrip High. I had the privilege of cheering Rayetta on many times during her long distance runs in track, during a leg on our relay team or during swim team. She was one of the most talented and dedicated athletes I knew. Her kind spirit, work ethic and beautiful smile are memories I hold dear and traits she inspired me with. My deepest sympathies to her husband, girls, and family. Rayetta made a huge impact in all who knew her. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel!!
Bill&DeniceHedges says
John, Shelby, Jesse and Dani and all of the family, My heart break s for you all. Rayetta was such an awesome lady! She touched so many hearts during her short life. Her mother, Celesta was one of my best friends all thru grade school. She too died much to young, but not before she instilled love, compassion, dignity and the true meaning of family!, Watching her raise her girls when I had the pleasure of sharing those girls at Daycare made me remember her mom. May God and the angels wrap their arms around each of you as you walk thru these next difficult days. RIP my friend.
Cindy Stanton says
Sincerest sympathy to John, the girls and all of Rayetta’s family and friends. She and that smile, spunk and kindness will never be forgotten. May God bless you with comfort and peace.
Bertha Black Eagle says
I couldn’t believe the passing of Rayetta. Didn’t know she was sick. I will always remember her with that big smile on her faces when I see her at basketball games. Prayers for her husband n girls. She will be missed by many.
Troy & Shelly Spang says
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. Rayetta was a wonderful person and we will miss her dearly. Her smile that lit up a room and her ability to make a person feel loved. She is one of the strongest women I know and she relied on that strength, as did we, throughout her battle. We are blessed and honored to have been a part of her life, to laugh with her as well as to cry with her. We will see you again my dear.
Troy Killsontop says
Prayers and condolences to the Jordan family.
Kimberly Vivian says
I am honored that I am able to know Rayetta. She was a team mate in track and then later we met up in the professional world. She was always so kind. You will be missed by many Rayetta. To her husband and girls and family I’m so sorry for your loss. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers daily.
Judy Ross says
Prayers and condolences to the Jordon family and Vicki.
Donna and Lawrence McCulloch says
Our sincere condolences to Rayetta’s family. I remember her in high school as an outstanding athlete, a leader and very classy. As a mother she instilled these same virtues in her daughters. Everyone who knew Rayetta loved her, she was so kind. May you find comfort in your memories, and the knowledge that she is no longer in pain and you will see her again. Our thoughts and prayers are with you .
Dahle Family says
Jordan Family
We are so sorry to hear of Rayettas passing….she was always so full of smiles and laughter…seeing her at all of the girls activities as our families were growing up was always a high point for us. She always had a way to make you feel as if you had just talked even if you hadn’t seen her for awhile. You could always see the pride and love she had for her family at all the games…win or lose…I pray she finds rest and peace now…may the good Lord comfort you at this time….
Jim, Noelle, Katie, and Connor Dahle
Russ Davidson says
Raye was an incredible woman in her own right and her spirit will live on through the girls and the life lessons they learned from having a mom like Rayetta.
JAMES E PEPPERS & RAE PEPPERS says
Jodan Family may the Creator give you much strength in the coming days. Her love will be with you always.
Lyle Harris says
My dear sister. I will always love you. Give my dad, Hannah, grandma, grandpa and my Aunt Celista your mother a hug for me. Rest In Peace.
Marie Boothe says
My deepest sympathy to the Jordan, Spang, and Harris families. Rayetta was sunshine to St. Labre. Always smiling and greeting people with joy. She always had time to lend an ear to friends and coworkers. You will be missed dear angel; you are at peace now. My prayers to all family members that your hearts be consoled.
Orie Medicine Bull says
I will miss seeing our beautiful and wonderful colleague who always held a positive spirit even when things seemed difficult. She was indeed a role model and an outstanding representative of her family, tribe, employment, and community. As a friend she was caring, supportive, made everyone she met feel comfortable, appreciated and she is deeply missed. Sending my prayers to family and friends.
John Flying & Diane Pond says
Requiescat in Pace.
RIP Rayetta, gone way too soon. By chance our paths had crossed with Rayetta a few times down here in Phoenix. It was so nice to see a friend from back home and visit about days gone by.
Patsy Brey Houseman says
Patsy, Spencer and Misty, are sorry John and family for your loss of Rayetta. She was a wonderful loving person to everyone and will be missed by all. Our prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. I am sure Jesus, and her Mom and everyone in Heaven have welcomed Rayetta with open arms. God bless.
Pam Kania says
We join you in grieving the loss of Rayetta. I especially will miss her smiles and caring attitude. Please know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Pam Kania
Candy says
Prayers from the La France Kids and from our mother, Fran Spang.
Leslie says
May all your fond memories, help you through this difficult time. We will always remember her being the girls # 1 fan. She was always quick to smile. She will be missed.
Sincerely,
Brian, Leslie Hull & Family
Theda Foote says
My most sincere condolences to John and girls, Vikki, Tracy, and all of the rest of family members, SPANGS!
Glo Simpson says
This just makes me so sad. Love to all Rayetta’s family and friends. ❤️
Melissa Whitewolf Royston & Family says
Sending my deepest condolences to the Jordan, Spang & Harris families. Prayers and God Bless
Sherry Daniels says
Shelby, Jesse and Dani, your mother loved you so very much. I am certain that having to leave you was the hardest step for her. I hope you can find comfort in knowing that she is at peace in heaven with Jesus. You now have your own special angel. Rayetta’s memory will live on through your lives and I know you will continue to make her very, very proud.
John, my heart breaks for the loss of your sweet companion. Rayetta touched so many lives including mine and all the kind words that have written said still cannot do her justice. There are no words. I pray for God’s comfort as He wraps His arms around you and the girls. May God Bless you.
Bobbi Limberhand says
Prayers to the Spang/Harris/Jordan families during this time, Rayetta was a beautiful person inside and out. My sister Kelly and I grew up with her. I also had the privledge of working with her. We are so saddened..Special prayers to her husband and girls..May God comfort you all during this time
Daisy & Larry Thompson says
Our sympathies to the family
Daisy & Larry says
Our sympathies to the family
Jane Girard says
My deepest prayers and sympathy to your family. It may not mean much right away, but the Church’s teaching on the Communion of Saints means that Rayetta is still with us in an even deeper way. All that love and caring that she had for her loved ones and anyone else she knew isn’t really gone. We have found that it is a wonderful blessing to have another advocate to intercede for us in heaven. I want to share this poem with you as it was such a comfort to us.
The Watcher by Margaret Widdemer. She always leaned to watch for us, // Anxious if we were late–// In winter, by the window// In summer, by the gate.// And though we mocked her tenderly–// Who had such foolish care–//The long way home would seem more safe // because she waited there. // Her thoughts were all so full of us, // She never could forget! // And so, I think that where she is, // she must be watching yet. Waiting till we come come to her, // Anxious if we are late. // Watching from heaven’s window, // Leaning on heaven’s gate.
God bless you and comfort you.
Daniel & Lillian Big Man says
Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Bianka Rock Above says
Rayetta was one of the nicest people I ever met. When I first started working at St. Charles she welcomed me with open arms. Each time I seen her throughout the years she would be smiling and greeting everyone. She was always so kind and friendly. She was a beautiful person inside and out. She will never be forgotten. Thoughts and prayers to the family. RIP Rayetta.
Louise Davenport says
I knew Rayetta from high school cross country. She remains in my memory as a rare and beautiful bird with economy of movement, and a top notch runner. I saw her a few times after high school, ever vivacious. She is frozen in tme for me that way. It is too much for the world to be without her.
We are deeply sorry and saddened.
Beth (Shackelford) Owen says
My heart filled condolences to the Jordan and Spang families. Rayetta was an amazing friend to all who knew her. She was always quick with a smile, a joke, to laugh, and to make everyone feel a part of the group. She will be deeply missed. I’m glad that I knew her way back when….
Kara Granlund says
Rae and I graduated high school together. Her amazing smile and sweetness brightened many of my days, and her drive and determination for excellence made her a force to be reckoned with. I was privileged to know her. Hugs and prayers to her family and friends.
Barb Garritson says
Rayetta was kind and always had a smile. She was a strong woman and her family should be proud of her legacy. She will be missed here, but a wonderful light will shine from heaven.
JT and Marla Martin says
We are so saddened to lose a great friend. We will miss her beautiful smile and personality, she was a spitfire and always always made us laugh! She will forever be missed!! Prayers for John and the girls, she loved you with everything she had to give!
Tisha Nagel says
I too remember that huge smile in high school. So athletic, so smart. There wasn’t much Rayetta couldn’t do. My deepest condolences to her family.
Katie Tatum says
We were so sad to hear about Rayetta. She was a beautiful soul who left sparkle and light where ever she went. Our prayers go out to her family. May God wrap you up tightly!
Geri Small says
Rest in Paradise BEAUTIFUL LADY. Love, prayers and peace to the family??
Shirl Robinson says
Deepest condolences to the family and relatives of Rayetta. Always saw her with a smile on her beautiful face. She treated people kindly and cared a lot for family and friends. She will be missed. Prayers for the family. <3
Jan Hartmann says
Rayetta you are an inspiration to many. Your quiet strength and gentle caring nature is a powerful combination. John, Shelby, Dani, and Jesse she will always be a part of you in your memories and your hearts.
Personally , I feel blessed that she was a part of my life. Prayers for all the family.
Sherri Terrell says
My condolences to Rayetta’s family. She and I graduated together and I remember her smile. She was so athletic and a beautiful person. Prayers and hugs for the family.
Kelly stevenson-sargent & Family says
John, shelby, Dani and Jesse- my thoughts and prayers are with you.Every time I saw your mom, she had to fill me in on her girls. She was such a thoughtful loving person.She inspired everyone she came in contact with, and that smile and laugh so infectious. I see your mom in each one of you. Lean on each other and know your mom is right beside you. Rip Ray
Carrie Braine says
My condolences and prayers for strength and love for each of you. RIP Rae…. fly high beautiful lady!
Jim & Sherry Bissell says
Wanted to let you and the girls know Johnny that your Aunt Sherry and I are keeping you and the girls in our prayers. We will be there Friday and if there is anything we can do or bring please let us know. Rayetta will always be our Bad To The Bone Girl.
Terri & Bruce Loudermilk says
Words can’t express how sad we feel with the loss of Rayetta. She will truly be missed but the memories we have of here will live on in our hearts forever. Our sincere condolences to John, Shelby, Jesse and Dani and the rest of her family.
KIMBERLY SPANG says
LOVE YOU BEAUTIFUL LADY…GONNA MISS THAT BEAUTIFUL SMILE..UNTIL WE SEE YOU AGAIN.
LOVE FROM JUNIOR, KIM, MARISSA AND ALISON.
David Grover says
Rayetta was the shining light of our graduating class at CHS of ’89.
I am stunned.
The world has lost an amazing person and heaven gets yet another angel.
Wishing the family my most sincere condolences.
Trevor Newman says
Rayetta’s smile would light up a room. She was passionate about her job and St. Labre. My condolences to her family and the St. Labre family.
Buggs and Loni Hartman says
John,Girls and Family. I truly wish I had the words to tell you how sorry I am. She was such a gentle kind soul. You can see it in the girls. Rayette will always be with you all. She will be the wind beneath your wings. God bless you all through this horrible time. My heart and prayers are with you all always.
Christine Starr-Sannon says
Sending my condolences to the Spang family. I will have fond memories of Rayetta during our younger years. You had the most contagious laugh, smile and fun times. RIP Rayetta.
Lloydine says
Rayetta was a smart, beautiful, and kind woman. She walked with an air of confidence and pride. She was always kind and acknowledged everyone with a “Good morning” or a “Good afternoon” accompanied by a brilliant smile. I aspire to be like her strong, educated, accomplished. She is, was, and ever will be a great role model for women everywhere and she will be dearly missed.
Dolores Shoulderblade says
Condolences to the families of Rayetta,
She was a a ray of sunshine to everyone who knew her
Her loving and caring ways will be deeply missed. She was an honorable woman. I can still see her smile and hear her caring words. RIP Beautiful Angel
Thomasine Hardground says
R.I.P Rayetta Spang Jordan!!! May Maheo welcome you with open arms and keep you safe and close to his heart. You will be greatly missed my fren.
GEORGIA Ann says
My condolences to all of Rayetta’s family and friends. Special prayers for her daughters, brother, sister, Dad,
stepmom and husband!!
You are in God’s presence, a precious angel.
Continued prayers of comfort and strength!!✝️❤️??✝️❤️??✝️❤️??✝️❤️??✝️❤️??✝️❤️??✝️❤️??✝️❤️??
Lance Cole says
Rayetta was one-of-a-kind. Tough as nails. She could push herself to the limit, all with elegance and a smile on her face. We shared many great times in Cross-Country/Track in high school. I will remember those days forever and I am grateful that I was able to be in the company of such an amazing person. She was an inspiration and an incredible role model. A true hero. She will be missed dearly. My condolences to John, the Girls, and all of Ray’s family and friends.
Michael , Kristi , Chandra and Alyssa says
HUGs and Prayers to All of Rayetta’s , Family
Especially John, and her three Girls., I have no words. other than we love you and will always be here if you need anything.
Bridgette, Alexandra and Lynnette says
Our deepest condolences. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Della Ahearn says
RIP,What a wonderful person,A true angel,Family will be in my prayers,
CARLOS PENNY says
Truly saddens me to hear of a beautiful soul as Rayetta passing. Sending prayers to her husband, daughter’s and family.
Tony and Deb Vegh says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family in this time of sadness. Ray was a wonderful, kind, strong woman, mother and wife. She will be dearly missed!
Dennis Davenport says
I am at a loss of words at the loss of such a beautiful person. I remember her for her great smile, kind heart and ability to chuck a pine cone. She pioneered girls track and Cross Country for Colstrip High School with a talent and disposition that was never matched in my tenure as Colstrips Cross Country coach. We have lost a kind sole and she will be missed. Condolences to her family and friends.
Crystal Old Chief says
Johnny, Shelby, Dani and Jessica I am so sorry for your loss I send my condolences. Rosetta is a beautiful, kind, considerate, loving, caring lady. She is a beautiful friend even though throughout the years we never hung out I still held her close in my heart. Johnny you were blessed to have such a beautiful lady as your wife I still remember your wedding we had such a wonderful time, then the out doors of berry picking, four wheeling and so on I will miss this wonderful lady. Lord I ask you to send down your comforting angels to Johnny his girls and all the Family give them the comfort, guidance, and healing now and for years to come in Jesus. name Amen ? All my prayers ?are with you all
Beth (Shackelford) Owen says
Always classy, quick with a smile, and a leader from early on in life, we are all truly blessed to have known such an amazing person. My deepest condolences to her family and the community she was so important to.
Lisa Basila says
What a profound loss for everyone. Rayetta and I lost touch years ago and sadly I had no idea she was ill. I’m grateful to be left with many fond memories… doing cartwheels to kill time at track meets, dance routines, going to prom, Colstrip Day festivities. I’m also left with thoughts of her laugh, her smile and eternal optimism. I knew her as an amazing athlete, student, friend and role model. She made those around her better people. Definitely someone I looked up to and I was so proud to be considered a friend. My most sincere condolences to all of her family and to those who were fortunate to have crossed paths with this incredible human.
Mary Folkman says
Always gracious, kind, and helpful. My sincere sympathy to her husband, children, and all others of her extended family. The St. Labre family
will deeply miss her also.
Duane Matt says
I remember watching her run in high school! Great runner! So sorry to see her leave this earth so early:( Our condolences.
Mike Brooks says
She will always be in our memories. She was a great woman that I remember loving life and the people around her.