Althea Gifford passed away in the early morning hours of February 20, 2018. Her loving and devoted husband, Rex Gifford cared for her with compassion and patience through her long illness. With the help of their daughter, Patti Gifford, they were able to spend the last few months together in their home.
Althea was born in Lovell, Wyoming on September 27, 1935 to Mae and Kurt Graham. Her childhood was spend in Wyoming and Utah. Although she lost her father early in life, she was raised with love and enjoyed her childhood. She graduated from Lovell High School. She met and started dating a young Navy veteran, Rex Gifford. They were married on November 30, 1953 in Billings, Montana.
Rex and Althea moved to Montana shortly after the birth of their first child, Carla. Their family added a son, Stewart and another daughter, Patti. Althea was the heart of the family and she took great pride in her home and caring for her family. Simple pleasures such as holding a baby, working on crafts, and baking always brought a smile to her face. Those who knew her would tell you that she was the consummate sport fan. The times she was able to see her favorite sports teams, the Atlanta Braves and the Dallas Cowboys, were special moments for her.
Althea was preceded in death by her mother, Mae Averett, her father, Kurt Graham, her stepfather, Ivan Averett, and her brother, George Graham. She is survived by her husband, Rex Gifford, her children, Carla Ward (Ronald), Stewart Gifford, and Patti Gifford. She was happiest when around children and was blessed with eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. She is also survived by her brother, Ed Graham (Linda), and her sisters, Elda Mae Jensen (Gary), and Dorothy Walker (Dennis).
The family wishes to thank the Frontier Hospice staff and Jo & Leroy at Our House for their compassionate care of Althea in her final days.
Services for Althea will be held at the Covenant United Methodist Church (2330 Broadway Helena, Mt) on February 23, 2018. Visitation will be from 12:00-12:45pm and the services will begin at 1:00 pm.
Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in Althea’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association. To offer condolences to the family, please visit www.helenafunerals.com
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Sandy Miller Heser says
Patti, So sorry to hear about your mom. Sandy Miller Heser.
Anonymous says
Arrive in Style was purchased for the family of Althea Gifford.
Tina & Stephen Crow says
We are so sorry for your loss, we’ll always remember that friendly smile. Our sincere sympathy. Tina and Stephen Crow.
Janice Laib says
Sorry for your loss it’s been a long time since we seen any of you but we do have memories .Our deepest sympathy and God Bless all of you. Ervin and Janice Laib