Shirley Maude Lund Blunt of Miles City passed away on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 in St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Billings, Montana.
She was born May 28, 1935 in Lewistown, Montana daughter of Cornelius M. Lund and Eleanor Ann Fargher Lund. She attended her first two years of schooling in Hilger, MT, attended her remaining grade school years and high school in Lewistown, graduating from Fergus County High School in 1953. She attended Billings Business College and then moved to Miles City in 1954 where she was employed by the Montan State Highway Department as a stenographer. She worked for that department for seven years.
She married Dennis L. Blunt in Miles City on June 30, 1957 and they continued to make their home in Miles City for their entire 49 years of marriage. Dennis passed away in 2006.
In 1974 she went to work for the First United Methodist Church as a Parish Visitor/Program Planner and worked there for 21 years until retiring in 1995. This was a wonderful position for her as she worked with all levels of ages. She enjoyed getting to know long time members of the church and hearing their stories of the early years in Miles City. She loved working with parishioners of all ages. She was happy when she had a carload of kids going on different outings.
Her greatest treasure was her life with Dennis, their children and wonderful grandchildren. Their children included Lisa, Lori and Douglas (Kim), grandchildren Ryan Alan (Khyrsten), Duncan Dennis, Ian Dylan (Skye), Olivia Katherine and Matthew Douglas. The many family gatherings spent with them was her greatest joy.
She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, where she held many positions. She was involved with Youth Baseball Mothers and activities with her children. She was a member of the Wild and Wacky Women Society with her dearest friends for over 30 years.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren and one great-grandson Dennis James “DJ” Thomas Blunt along with many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Dennis, her great granddaughter Aurora Storm McRae, her parents, her brothers, Larry (Mitzie) Lund, Bob (Barb) Lund, Jack Lund and George (Lorraine) Lund, her sister Noreen (John) Smith, her nephew John Andrew Lund, and her niece Velda Lund Loch. Shirley was also preceded in death by Dennis’ siblings and in-laws Arlene Blunt Wilson, Lola Blunt Mickelson, Marie (Richard) Blunt Buslett, Dorothy (Charles) Blunt Smith, Vivian (Lavonne) Blunt Eichmeier, Edwin “Ike” (Marion) Blunt, and Vera (Roger) Blunt Krause in addition to several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.
A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Monday, January 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. The service will also be streamed on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@milescitymethodist.com. Memorials may be made to the Miles City First United Methodist Church, 24 N 11th St., Miles City, MT 59301. Following the Memorial Service, a luncheon will be held at the VFW in Miles City. Everyone is invited. Condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Monday January 27, 2025
First United Methodist Church
24 N. 11th St.
Miles City, Montana 59301
Luncheon
Immediately following the Memorial Service
Monday January 27, 2025
VFW
119 N. 6th St.
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Tom Zuelke says
To Shirley’s family,
So sorry to hear of this Methodist Church icon passing. I remember Shirley from my days 60 years ago in Methodist Youth Fellowship. She will be sorely missed by everyone who attends the Church. So sorry for your loss.
Beth Ann Wiedeman says
Doug, Kim and the Blunt family, sending u prayers during this time of grief and hoping your memories help heal the hole in your hearts.
De Nice Curry and Kim Feil says
Lisa, Doug and Kim
We were so shocked to see this. It seems like we just saw her a few weeks ago at Reynolds. We always enjoyed our visits with Shirley. She will be missed by many. Hugs to all of you.
De Nice Curry and Kim Feil
Robert L Flotkoetter says
Lisa, Doug & Lori, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. I have fond memories of her and our childhood. Praying for you all.
Martha Crandall says
My sympathy
Garth Sleight says
Lisa and the entire Blunt family, please accept my condolences on the passing of your mom, grandma, great-grandma, aunt, and friend. May you be sustained by happy memories.
tab james fleming says
Doug, Lori, and Lisa please accept or deepest condolences. Your mom was a very sweet and kind sole. She raised a family of wonderful people that reflect her kind and wonderful personality. I’m sure she will be missed by many beyond her family. We pray that our heavenly father comforts you all during your time of loss.
Cori Hanel Munsell says
I am sorry for your family with the loss of your mother. My Mom always enjoyed Shirley while she lived in Miles City.
Prayers are with you all.
Vikki Bradley says
Shirley was such a beautiful lady, I loved visiting with her. I know how hard it is to lose a parent, it makes you feel empty like you are missing something. She will always be in your hearts and memories. Prayers to all of you.🙏
Merrilee (Moore) Campbell says
Lisa, Lori and Doug. Your family were some of the closest friends we had after your dear Mom sent some wonderful cookies home with our Dad when he was working on your house. She tried to get rid of us by sending a “male” cat home with our Dad that gave birth to multiple batches of kittens. We still hung in there. What a great lady and friend. So many great memories. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Marcy Stabler Parks says
Doug, Lori, and Lisa, I am so sorry to hear about your mom. My heart goes out to all of you. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Jim Russell says
So sorry to hear about this dear ladies passing I remember her from my childhood and her kindness was infectious. Hopefully you are in the arms of Jesus. RiP
Carol Schneidt says
Blunt family, know that my thoughts and prayers are with you! Always enjoyed visiting with Shirley!
Denise Harvey says
What a beautiful sweet soul! Always so kind and caring!
All our love and prayers.
Dave Johnson says
Doug, Lisa, and Lori,
So sorry to hear about the passing of your mom, she was a wonderful lady.
Karla Allison says
Shirley was a sweet lady. I got to know her better when I worked as a home care aide for Dennis.
Kyle Gumbert says
So sorry for your loss. Shirley was an amazing woman. I’m so thankful that we were able to reconnect over the last couple of years. Love you guys.
Jeff and Kyle
Chris & Kayla(gookin) Carpenter says
So sorry to hear the loss of Shirley! She was always smiling,laughing and uplifting.. What a great spirited person she was. My prayer to all of you that the lord wraps his arms around you in this time of need.
Maureen Larson says
Lisa, Doug and all of Shirley’s family,
My sympathies to all of you. My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time.
Irene and Buster Pluhar says
So sorry for your loss. Shirley was a beautiful lady inside and out. Always had time to stop and visit no matter where you was at. Let those wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.
Muriel Selk says
Shirley was such a sweet lady. Always willing to help anyone. Always had a smile. Did so much for the youth of the Firts United Methodist Church. May your memories bring you comfort. Prayers for Jesus to encircle your family at this sad time. Will miss looking on the computer to see how she was doing.
Shorty & Judy says
Doug & Kim So sadden by your loss Praying for God to give each and everyone of you the strength now and in the days to come
Laura Jane Willson says
So sorry to see that Shirley has passed. She was a very special lady and leaves wonderful memories behind. Keep them all close to your heart.
Delores Cameron says
Lisa, I am so sorry to hear about Mom, but she is now where other Mothers go. Heaven!
June Opp says
Doug,Kim and all of the Blunt family, My thoughts and prayers for you all are that God will comfort you all as you morn the passing of your wonderful Mother.Shirley will be missed by so many people.She was always such a beautiful pleasant lady. May God Bless and comfort you all during this difficult time and in the days ahead.
June Opp
Susan Sanderson says
Lisa, Lori, and Doug
I’m so very sorry for the loss of your Mother. She was a wonderful and kind woman. I will miss our visits and of course her generous smile & giggle.
May your memories be a comfort to you as you go on without her presence.
All my love
Bernadette Miller says
Prayers to you all during this time of loss. Shirley was a very sweet. loving, kind person. I will miss visiting with her about my jellies and I will miss seeing her at my job. She was always a favorite of mine!
Heidi Harbaugh says
Doug, Kim and the Blunt Family-
Please accept my heartfelt condolences at the loss of Shirley. She was an amazing woman with a smile that could light up any room. I so enjoyed the time I spent with her over the years.
Prayers for peace
Heidi Harbaugh
Deb K. says
Ma, I will miss you so much. So many fun memories of you and Dennis. Your sense of humor and gentle spirit will always be with me.
I look forward to the day that we meet again in heaven.
Love you! ❤️
Your Deb girl
Carol and Larry Hudson says
Lisa, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful mom. She was always so kind and would always say hi or wave when she would see me. She had a way of making me feel like such a special person and I know how much you and your siblings will miss her. Sending your family love and prayers at this time and in the days ahead!
Shelley Killen says
Lisa, Lori,Doug,Kim and families,
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers at this time. Shirley was a great woman and her memories will live on.
Jim & Cathy Bastian says
What a dear sweet lady!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We know that you will have wonderful memories of a dear mom. She was one in a million!
Donna orthman says
I met Shirley more than 40 years ago and while I didn’t see her often I enjoyed the times I did see her
She was a very nice lady and shared her faith with others. She will be missed. Donna orthman
Cheryl Lesh Clark says
That laugh and mischievous twinkle in her eye will always be remembered along with her very big and kind heart! Love and comfort to the entire family as you grieve this loss. 🙏
Laura Heinle says
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Shirley was such a kind person. She is one of my bright spots from our time in Miles City. She helped me develop as a young mother and helped shape who I am today. She will be missed.
Dean Meyer says
Doug, Lisa, Lori, and extended family, Your Mom touched so many people and lifted so many people up over the course of her life. She always had the gift of encouragement and making someone feel important and special. I’m so thankful to have known her, especially in my youth at the United Methodist Church. And I absolutely cherish my time with her a few years ago, reconnecting with her at the Airport Inn for lunch. What a beautiful lady, inside and out. Our prayers are with you during this time of loss, praying that the Lord surrounds you with each other, His love, and many sweet memories of Shirley. Your families are blessed because of her.
DeeAnna Briggs says
Shirley left a lasting impression on all whose paths she crossed. Warm heart, love for children, and dedication to family, friends, and her congregation. She will be missed, but definitely not forgotten. Our love to the Blunt family. Grover, Beth, DeeAnna, Paige Briggs and Joyce Gustin
Cinda Paynter says
I have such fond memories of Shirley. I will always cherish them.
Prayers to the family.
Al McLees says
I’m so sorry about the passing of your mom. She was a mother to me that I needed when my parents divorced. Your dad and mom made me feel loved and wanted when I needed it most after the divorce. God got great one back. And she is with the love of her life your father. Dennis. Your parents were one in a billion. Such kind souls
Ginger Huckins says
The loss of Shirley will be a big adjustment to family and friends. No words can fully express my sorrrow.
Tari Klapmeier Van Noy says
Dear Lisa, Lori, Doug and Kim,
My sincere condolences to all of you. Shirley was a very special person, full of positivity and joy. Sending you strength for the days to come.🩷
Dave &Lavonne Ewalt says
Dear Shirley’s family, Dave and I are so sorry for your loss of Shirley. I have very fond memories of Shirley from when your dad was at the VA, Shirley came to see him every day and of course she always brought her good cookies to us girls … which we surely enjoyed.God bless you all🙏🏻
Nina Everett says
I was very sad to read of Shirley’s passing. She was a wonderful cousin and we shared the same views and the same sense of humor. She was truely one of the good ones who treated everyone with kindnes and love.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Betty Fridrichson says
So sorry to find that Shirldy has left us. We were friends since 1972. We went to TOPS together and out to eat together. This family had one of the best mothers,friends, and Grandma’s ever. She is missed already.
Elizabeth Fridrichson says
Rest in peace my dear fruend
John Combs says
You never had to doubt that you were loved by Shirley. Whether it was a warm embrace or a raised eyebrow, you knew she cared for you deeply. She was the hands and feet of Jesus. I’m so thankful I got to share some space and time with that amazing woman.
Can’t wait to see you again.
Cathy Cloud Durst says
Shirley had a pretty profound impact on my life. I too remember MYF (hi Tom Zuelke!) and the Hobo Stews and hayrides, etc. She and Dennis just loved us – treating us all with nonjudgmental acceptance. I have thought of her often and hope the “kids” I’ve encountered over the years might think the same of me. I know she will be missed – even by those of us who haven’t interacted with her for years. My condolences to her family.
Kim Stanton says
Dear families, so very sorry to read of the passing of your beloved mom and grandma. She was well loved by her family and the community. Thinking of you as you grieve her loss and celebrate a life well-lived. May you feel the Lord’s comfort and loving care for each of you today and always.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Kim Stanton and family
Leisa Hotaling says
Lisa, Lori, and Doug, Your Mom was the absolute best. I have so many memories of time spent with your family and Shirley was the loving center of it all. What a happy home she made for you and then she shared that with so many others. Reading all the memories that people have left here shows what a loving witness she was. I am praying for you all that God holds you close and gives you peace. Love to you all. Leisa “Annie” Hotaling
Mary Ann Liles says
To Shirley’s family,
If there were a recipe for the perfect mom, it would read: “Shirley”. So many others have mentioned her kindness and that defined her, but she was also great fun to be around and a lively soul. My prayers are with you as you mourn this wonderful lady. I treasure the time spent with her at FUMC.
Mary Ann Stockhill Liles
Russell Warn says
Doug, Lori, and Lisa, my deepest condolences. Nothing but fond memories of you mom.
George & Maggie Holom says
Doug, Kim and all of Shirley family,
We are sorry for your loss. May God bless you all with Peace and Comfort in your loss and may she Rest in Peace.
Shawna Rothaus says
Dearest Lisa, Doug, Lori, and Family,
There are no words to ease your pain. Shirley was such a beautiful person; she was very loving and kind. I have many fond memories of her; I adored her. I’ll be keeping you all in my thoughts ♥️ and prayers🙏.
Mija Nemec says
So, so very sorry to hear of Shirley’s sudden passing. She was a GEM and one of my favorite people.
My most sincere condolences. Thinking of you all. 💔
Mary Ottoy says
So sorry to hear of Shirleys passing. She was a sweet lady. My condolences to the family
Tom Clarke says
Shirley was a unique individual. She had her opinions, and respected those of others. She had a God given love of people, and really loved children. I know you family members will miss her dearly, but understand that Shirley provided memories that all of us who came in contact with her will also.
A big adjustment for all who knew her.
David Bahr says
Shirley was a dear friend to many but I’m especially grateful for her friendship with my mother Dorothy.
Kim Smarsh says
My sincere sympathy to all of Shirley’s family. She was always a delight to speak with. May your wonderful memories carry you through this difficult time.
Kathy Young says
I so appreciated knowing Shirley, a lifelong family friend.
Linda says
Doug and family, so sorry to see that Shirley passed away. Just saw her not long ago and always enjoyed visiting with her. Prayers and sympathy.
Diona Warn Austill says
Lisa, Lori, Doug, Ryan and all of the family,
I’m so sorry to hear about Shirley. I have such fond memories of hanging at your house, you were my first friends when we moved to Miles City. She will be missed!
Diona
Sheila Rickett says
So sorry to hear this. You all are in my paryers.
Sheila Rickett says
To Shirley’s family. So sorry to hear this. It is hard to loss a parent especially this time of year. You all are in my paryers
Pam Rogge says
In reading all of these tributes it is clear how many lives Shirley touched over the years and how greatly she will be missed. May God’s peace and special memories comfort you now and in the days to come. 🙏♥️
linda walker says
What a kind and thoughtful woman. Rest in Peace Shirley.
Kevin Donnelly says
Lori
Sorry to hear of your loss.
May God be with you and your family.
Rod & Sue Heitschmidt says
Sue has asked me to convey our tribute to our dear and enduring friend, Shirely B. Her passing impacts our minds at a level equivalent to the passing of Sue’s Mother, Gertrude, who lived in Miles City with us for 7 years before her passing in 1999. We are stunned and heart-broken, but gratful for having known and lived in Shirley’s world. I am particularly concerned because she was my main source for old (I fear some of it was used) bubble gum! She was also a key component of my happy life in Miles City. But to Sue, being of kinder heart, and more stable mind-set than me, is truly devastaed by Shirley’ passing. She was one of Sue’s closest friends. She was a Miles City God send. Sue never knew Shirley as anything other than a dear, wise, and loving “sister”. Her family was to her like her own nieces and nephews. For these relationships, we are eternally grateful for the life and love of our dear friend Shirley Blunt. Love to y’all! P.S. Sure wish I would have known her middle name of Maude while she was living. I think I could have had some fun with that name. Ha!
Ray and Terri Schmidt says
We are so so sorry to learn about the passing of Shirley. She was so fun when she would come into Munchies with the Methodist women for their birthday parties. Such a great sense of humor. I also remember her when I was in MYF when I was a teenager. What a great inspiration she was.
Shirley touched so many lives and will be missed by so many of us.
Fred & Vicky Anderson says
We are so saddened by news of Shirley’s passing. She had a huge impact on the lives of our family through our time with the Methodist church in Miles City. Each of our three sons considered her a member of the family. Their experiences with her through the youth group activities certainly had a positive impact on each of their lives. From our perspective she was a cornerstone of the church.
Shirley was a dear friend who always had a bright smile and an Ole and Lena joke to share. When we returned to Miles City to visit after moving away we always looked forward to visiting with her and looked forward to her hugs. It has been said that the quality of ones life is measured by the positive impact they have had on others. Judging from the tributes to her there is no doubt that she set the benchmark very high. She was the voice of Christ in countless lives. She will be badly missed but not forgotten Rest in Peace.
Doug and Diane Ellingson says
So sorry for your loss! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and family.
Bob & Gaylene Van Dyke says
To the entire Blunt Family. We are so sorry for your loss. As a young couple in Miles City with our family far away, Shirley, Dennis, and your family provided the love and support we so much needed. We experienced all of her wonderful traits mentioned in the other tributes. Rest in peace in the Heaven that you so much deserve.
Melinda Tangen says
Dear Lisa , Ryan and your families, my condolences to you as you say goodbye to your mom and grandmother. Thinking of you.
John Kaze says
How could it be just last month got my usual hug from my 1st baby sitter my mom worked at the star and my dad at the highway dept and Shirley took me after school til my mom came and picked.me up. What a joyful time I had getting to know and love the blunt family we all had great times. I remember all the times your family and mine spent together and looking back I remember those times.fondly.Doug, Lisa, and Lori know that I will miss seeing your mom as I have missed your dad through the Years if you need any help it would be a honor and a privilege to help out any way I can. I’m so sorry for your loss and I will and have shed a few tears since finding out about this. So from a brother from another mother always know you are in my heart and prayers.
Marian and Lee Zuelke says
Lisa, Lori, and Doug,
I have such fond memories of the many Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings spent with your family. They adopted me into your family with open arms and we always had such a wonderful time!! Your mom was a very special person and played a special role in many aspects of many lives; she will be remembered and missed by many.
Johna Zinda Wilcox says
Lori-
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Keep your memories close so that they may comfort you. Wishing you peace during this difficult time.
Johna Zinda Wilcox
Mary & Chuck Notbohm says
To the Blunt family, Shirley was one in a Million! She was a true lady and a very devoted Christian. She will be missed by so many. Sympathy and prayers to you all.
Shelma Erikson says
I am so sorry for your loss. Shirley was such a sweet soul and will be dearly missed. Prayers and hugs for all of you.
Susanne Galbraith says
Lori and all of the Blunt Family,
Sending my sincere sympathies to you as you morn the loss of your Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother. May all of your memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Guy Lund says
Goodbye Auntie. I was privileged to have you in my life for so many years. I have so many memories, too many to recall here. I do know that you had a glorious reunion with Dennis, grandma, grandpa and all your siblings. Lisa, Doug and Lori you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sandy & Jim Stoltz says
To all of Shirley’s family. I am so sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories of Shirley (and Dennis) from my youth through adulthood. My heart goes out to all of you. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Lyle and Clairice Carr says
What a warm and wonderful person was Shirley Blunt! To everyone who passed through her many Church projects, especially the kids, few have left more memories for so many than this special woman. So sorry for her family’s loss, but happy for the wonderful memories she gave you.
Mary Aissen says
Fond memories of your parents’ visits.
Sending love from your Iowa family.