Billie Sue Bartlett

Billie Sue (Welsh) Bartlett, 76, departed this world on Sept. 7, 2024. She left with a smile on her face, no doubt excited to be reunited with the love of her life, John Bartlett. Her battle with the cruel disease of dementia has ended.

She was born in Webster, South Dakota, the fourth daughter to Willis "Bill" and Edna Welsh. The family moved often due to her dad’s coaching career but settled in Whitefish in 1956. From that moment on, Whitefish was home. Billie met her life-long partner, John Bartlett, in Central School, dated him through their years at WHS, and married him with little fanfare in Hawaii on John’s R&R from Vietnam. Together, they raised a brood of four kids, Dana, Dani, John, and Darby. Billie loved family. She was the mom who was present, supporting each behind the scenes project as well as loudly cheering on each team for the Bulldogs and Montana Grizzlies.

Bille had a mischievous side and loved to pull pranks and jokes on her husband and kids. But she also worked tirelessly behind the scenes in support of the community of Whitefish, volunteering with the Alpine Theater Project, working at the Whitefish Library, constantly smiling and welcoming neighbors at every sporting and music event. Billie never asked for or claimed any credit. Billie was old school Whitefish.

She is survived by her beloved sisters, Jane Edwards, Judy Harmon, Patty Johnson, and Jeannie Shea and their families. The Welsh girls were close, taking trips and doing crafts together, laughing and sharing their "Twit" face with the world. Billie’s big heart and boundless love encompassed the Bartlett side of the family also, as she loved Jan and Larry Majerus, and Linda Bartlett, and their families as her own.

She will be missed by many family members and friends, and especially her children and grandkids. Dana and Dwayne Gillis always enjoyed her hospitality and sense of humor. Dani and Josh Harmon will miss her near-daily influence in their lives. John and Kelly Bartlett will always remember Billie’s sense of family and community, and Darby will miss making Billie laugh.

The Bartlett kids often think of what Billie and John meant to each other, to their family, and to the community that truly raised us all. She will be often remembered. We see Billie’s legacy in each other and in her seven grandkids. Cole Gillis, Logan Hull, Tanner Harmon, Elia Bartlett, Lindy Hull, JJ Bartlett, and Jordan Harmon will all miss their adventures with Grandma Billie, and her love and advice.

If Billie’s passing reminds us of anything it is this: don’t let grief be the only reason to slow down and take a look around. Appreciate the connections you have, honor them by being present with laughter and love. Our family and our shared community will miss Billie Bartlett.

A celebration of life is being scheduled for Thursday, July 10, 2025. Billie and John’s wedding anniversary (details to follow). Donations in Billie’s name may be made to the Alpine Theater Project or the Whitefish Library. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home caring for the family.