Audrey Mae Ramirez

Audrey Mae was born Sept. 18, 1939, in Sackets Harbor, N.Y., to Ethyl Carver Liggett and Doyle Clifford Liggett. She died at home in the early hours of March 10, 2010, after a long and courageous battle with chronic illness, with her family by her side.

As a little girl, she was precocious and adventuresome. Audrey moved with her mother and siblings out west to the land of fruits and nuts to Ventura, Calif., where she spent her youth. It was there that she developed the strength of character, keen wit and strong work ethic that served her well her entire life.

She married at a young age to Joe Barron, who was her high school sweetheart. From that union was born her three eldest children, Brenda, Michael and Allyse. She later married the love of her life and soul mate, Bill Ramirez. From this union was born their youngest daughter, Stephanie. She instilled in her children the importance of integrity and perseverance. She was most happy surrounded by her family, and took great pride in her children and their families.

In the summer of 1969, Audrey ventured unaccompanied through the Mojave Desert with her children to join her Bill to build a new home in Big Sky Country. She raised her family in Billings, where she provided a good life and a promising future for her children. Audrey also built a career as a retail advertising sales representative at the Billings Gazette, where she retired after 28 years of dedicated and faithful service. She was proud of the reputation for excellence that she earned over the course of her career, and for the lifelong friendships that she developed during her years at the Gazette. Audrey's word was her bond. She was the best cook that you ever met. She had eclectic and superb culinary skills, and prepared delicious foods from around the world. She made the best Mexican food you ever ate. She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, crocheting, gardening, canning and collecting cookbooks from around the world. Audrey was a true friend and strong role model for her children. 

She is preceded in death by her mother, Ethyl; her sister, Donna; and her brother, Butch. She is survived by her husband, Bill Ramirez; sisters Nedra and Lois; and her children Brenda, Michael, Allyse and Stephanie; 10 granddaughters and eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She will live forever in our hearts.

Cremation has taken place. A service to celebrate Audrey's life will be held at St. Bernard's Catholic Church at noon on Monday, March 15. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. Smith Downtown Chapel is in charge or arrangements.