Jackie "Nannie" Kuper

Jackie Kuper, age 86, of Miles City

July 9, 1939 – February 14, 2026

Jackie Kuper, beloved matriarch, devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at the age of 86 surrounded by her family and loved ones.

She was born July 9, 1939, in Weatherby, Mississippi to Tindel Mangum and Robbie Sanders. She spent most of her early life in Mississippi where she was raised along with her 4 brothers. Her brothers were very important to her, and they sustained loving relationships throughout their lives.

She met her husband LeRoy in 1958 when introduced by his Army friend and her cousin Junior Sumerall while serving in France. They began a long-distance friendship while writing letters to each other for 2 years before finally meeting in person in April of 1960 when Leroy was discharged from the army. They got married on October 8, 1960, in Jackson, Mississippi. They moved to LeRoy's hometown of Laurel Montana in 1971 where they raised their 3 children. Jackie carried the warmth and strength of her Southern roots throughout her life. She was the heart of her family, a steady presence, a source of comfort, and the keeper of traditions that brought generations together.

Known to many as "Nannie", her greatest joy in life was her family. She had an intense and unwavering love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She helped raise many of them and was a constant care provider in their early years. She made each one feel deeply cherished and uniquely special and she was always one to send a card or gift for holidays to let you know you were loved. Her home was always open, her kitchen always well stocked with goodies, and her arms always ready for an embrace.

She will be remembered for her strength and the unconditional love she poured into those around her. Though she is no longer with us, the love she gave so freely will continue to guide and sustain her family for generations to come.
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Jackie is survived by her loving family:
Her husband of 65 years Leroy Kuper, Son John (Ginny) Kuper, Daughter Janice (Jerry) LaPrath, Daughter in-law Michelle Kuper, Brother Bill Mangum and many special grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by:
Her parents Tindel James Mangum and Robbie Baumhardt, stepfather Vernon Bernard Baumhardt, her Son George Kuper, her brothers Bob Mangum, Vernon "Butch" Baumhardt, and Don Baumhardt and extended family members.

A service to celebrate Jackie's life will be held on June 20, 2026, in Miles City, MT. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials are sent to the Miles City Youth Hockey Association or a charity of one's choice.