Barbara Jean Friesz

Barbara Jean Willis Friesz, 83 yrs, of Dillon Montana passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025 at Pioneer Care and Rehabilitation, Dillon, Montana.

Barbara was born in Houston, Texas, November 22,1941 to Archie and Avear Willis. She was the youngest of four children. Their family has strong roots in the south where Barbara had many precious memories of family and close childhood friends. With a delicate southern drawl and beautiful singing voice, she loved sharing music with her brother Marty and family. She also sang for a local Houston radio station.

Barbara married Eugene Floyd Friesz on March 28, 1958. The couple have three children together, Mitchell Gene Friesz, Vincent Leon Friesz and Julienne Friesz, all born in Houston, Texas. In 1969, the brave and adventurous couple decided to move their young family north to where they made their home in Dillon, Montana. Shortly after the move, Barbara enrolled at Beaverhead High School where she received her high school diploma in May of 1970. She achieved this while working, being a dedicated wife, and a mother of three.

Later in life, after her divorce in 1996, Barbara returned to school and, through strength and perseverance, obtained her nursing degree from Montana Tech, Butte, Montana. Barbara's strong work ethic and passion for higher education was ever present. She forged a path for non-traditional students her age for many to follow. Wherever she worked, Barbara's co-workers held a special place in her heart. Whether working as a waitress or as a nurse, she made true and lifelong friendships. Neighbors and friends of Barbara were like family to her. She loved them dearly to the very end. The fondest memories with friends and family are Christmas eves shared with the Prophet Family across the street. Barbara would make a delicious pot of homemade clam chowder and Sandy would prepare the fixings. These evenings were filled with loving hospitality, piano, and carols; making it a family tradition that Barbara and her family would cherish.

As a lover of animals, both dogs and cats alike were nurtured in her home throughout her life. They always brought her peace and comfort. For many years, Barbara had beautiful flower gardens, which she took much pride in. She loved to sit on the front porch swing, enjoy a glass of southern style sweet tea and soak up the good company, stories, and laughter. She would bask in the Montana fresh air while admiring her beautiful yellow roses and purple clematis. In the fall, from her harvest of raspberries, she would make a "mean" jelly. She enjoyed sharing the fruits of her garden with friends and family.

Sharing in Barbara's life, are her sons Mitchell Friesz, Dillon MT, Vincent Leon Friesz (Brenda) Butte, MT, and daughter Julienne Friesz (Warren) Sioux Falls SD. Six grandchildren: Stephanie Clack (Don), Janet Friesz (Chad), Aaron Friesz (Cam), Ethan Friesz (Erin), Seth Friesz and Brianna Friesz. Seven great grandchildren: Coryn Clack, Elias Clack, Alexis Friesz, Amya Friesz, Chenoa Friesz. Step-great grandchildren: Westley Heylens and Charlie Heylens.

Barbara is united with her parents Archie and Avear Willis; brother Marty Willis and his wife Lucy; sister Shirley Jenkins; brother James Willis.

A celebration of Barbara's life will be held at Brundage Funeral Home, Dillon Mt Thursday June 26, 2025 at 1:00 PM