Lilah O. Higle, a beloved centenarian, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2023, in
Helena, Montana, surrounded by her loving family. She was 100 years old.
Born on February 19, 1923, in
Billings, Montana, Lilah was the third of seven children born to Dewey and Cleora Lande. She grew up in
Butte, Montana, during the mining boom where she developed her independent spirit. During the heart of the depression, she moved to the Hamilton valley with her mother and sister. It was there she met Laurence Higle, and they were married in April of 1940. Laurence was deployed to the European Theater during WWII; during his deployment, they welcomed their first daughter, Jeanie, in February of 1942. Upon his return, they welcomed their son, Jack, in June of 1946.
The family settled in the Eureka area in the early 1950s. They welcomed their second daughter, Janice, in August of 1961. Lilah enjoyed camping with her family, coffee with her girlfriends, and hosting holiday get-togethers. She found comfort in new age spiritualism.
Lilah was an active member of the Tops club for many years and served as a valuable member of the election board in Lincoln County.
Lilah's legacy lives on through her surviving children, Janice Moore of Helena, and Jack Higle of Eureka. She is also survived by her brother, Jack Lande, of
Crow Agency, Montana. Her nurturing spirit extended to her 7 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, five siblings, her husband, her oldest daughter, grandson, and great-grandson. Lilah's memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends, as she leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to those she held dear.
At the time of her death, she was the oldest registered member of the Crow Tribe of Indians.
Rest in peace, dear Lilah, knowing that your unwavering love will forever echo through the generations of our family.