Mildred R. "Millie" Marsh

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Mildred Marsh Obituary

Mildred R. "Millie" Marsh

FOUNTAIN HILLS - Mildred R. "Millie" Marsh, 88, formerly of Billings Montana, passed away in Fountain Hills Arizona on March 22, 2024, from complications due to glaucoma, macular degeneration, and Alzheimer's disease. Millie was born in Cody, Wyoming on May 17, 1935, to Bryan and Mildred Russell. The family moved to Sheridan Wyoming when Millie was 4 years old, and she graduated from Sheridan High School in 1953. After graduation, she attended Cottey College in Nevada, Missouri. To complete her degree, she then attended Colorado State College in Greeley Colorado, receiving a bachelor's in music education. Upon graduation, she taught school in Hardin, Montana from January 1958 to June 1959. Millie married the love of her life, Robert Marsh on August 15, 1959. Their marriage surpassed 64 years.

She played cello with the Billings symphony for forty years and flute with the Billings Community band for 38 years. Her passion was teaching flute and she will be remembered for the many students she coached, not only in playing, but in helping them to prepare for life and its many challenges. In addition, she organized one of the first bell choirs in Billings. Other musical interests included organizing a music group "Millie and Friends." They played for weddings, wedding receptions, and for a time provided dinner music on Sunday evenings at the Northern Hotel. Playing flute in the Alte Kameraden Band of Red Lodge was a favorite of hers for many years. She was also a member of the NFA, National Flute Association, attending conferences in many cities. In addition, she was part of the teaching team for the MMI, Montana Music Institute, a summer program for elementary students to experience different aspects of the arts.

Millie's faith in Jesus Christ was nurtured by attending a Cursillo, a non-denominational Christian retreat. She and Bob were involved with several churches in Billings, the last being the Billings First United Methodist Church.

Travel was also part of her life with trips to Mexico, Hawaii, and Europe.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Marsh; children Scott (Wendy) Marsh; Kirsti (Kent) Smith; grandchildren Heidi Marsh; Nolan Marsh; and her brother Bill Russell.

A private gathering of the family will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Millie can be sent to an organization of one's choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Billings Gazette on Apr. 7, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Mildred Marsh

10 Entries

Caryl and Jody Guinn

April 20, 2024

Dear Bob and Family,
We are remembering our last visit with you and Millie in Billings a few years ago, and how we treasure the many memories from the time that our families lived there. From buying flute music at my Dad's music store (Al Guinn's Music) to playing flute obligatos for my Mom's church choir - Millie graced everything she was involved in. What a lovely gift she shared with everyone. Mom and I are sure, too, that Millie and my Dad played in the Billings Symphony together, probablyfor many years - and perhaps they're playing flute and cello duets together in Heaven!
We love you, Bob, and send our deepest sympathies to you and your dear family.
Caryl and Jody

Joe Sullivan

April 15, 2024

My condolences to Bob and their children. She was such a kind and friendly person.

Bryan and Erin Grummett

April 14, 2024

What a Lady! So grateful for Millie and that she was able to work with our flute students. What a treasure! Her smile would light up a room, and such a great sense of humor. We remember her fondly. Our condolences to Bob and her family.

Barbara Franck

April 12, 2024

Millie was a sweet lady. My daughter, Kaylee, had flute lessons with her. Beautiful soul. So very sorry for your loss.

Patti Rider

April 11, 2024

My father Charles Rider, Millie´s cousins. I know they were very close.
My condolences to her family and friends. Patti Rider

David and Rina Reynolds

April 11, 2024

Working with Millie in the artistic community of Billings is a treasured memory for both Rina and me. I can think of very few who cared more deeply about her students than Millie. Bob, we are thinking of you at this time.

Brad Brown

April 11, 2024

I have known Bob and Millie for a long time through the music world. I'm so sorry for the grief you are going through with the loss of Millie! She was an absolutely wonderful woman. I'm also so happy to know that we will meet again! I see a couple of "God winks" in the obituary. I was raised in Cody. I didn't know Millie was born there! Then I see she graduated from Sheridan! "Coincidentally" we're going to Sheridan this weekend for a concert being put on by the nephew from CO of the lady I'm seeing. I'll be thinking of Bob and Millie at that concert!!

Perry & Carla

April 7, 2024

We have known Millie and Bob for a very long time and memories will always be present. Her music devotion was our big connection. Thoughts and prayers to Bob and their children.

Tom Rider

April 7, 2024

My cousin Millie was like the sister to me. I will miss her very much. I wish Bob and kids my sincerest sympathy.