Obituary published on Legacy.com by Stenberg Funeral Home - Big Timber on Oct. 1, 2025.
Mildred "Millie" Clarissa Woolley, aged 93, passed away January 14th, 2025. She died peacefully under the care of the team at Pioneer Medical Center with her daughter, Darlene by her side. Millie's 93 years were filled with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family, friends and community.
Born on September 14th, 1931, in Fromberg, MT, Millie was the beloved daughter of John and Mildred McDonough. Growing up on the family farm, she learned the values of hard work and perseverance alongside her seven siblings (Betty, Joe, Pat, Jack, Shirley, Jean and Karla). These early experiences shaped her into the compassionate and resilient person we all knew and loved.
Millie's passion for education led her to Montana State University in Bozeman, where she earned her degree in teaching. Her career took her to various schools across Mon-tana, including Libby, Three Forks, Ballantine, Big Sandy, Greycliff, and finally Big Timber, where she retired in 1991. Millie's dedication to her students and her community was evident in every classroom she entered. She was not just a teacher but a mentor and a friend, always striving to help others succeed.
In 1954, Millie married Robert Woolley, and together they built a loving family. She em-braced her role as a stepmother to Darlene with open arms and a heart full of love. Mil-lie's family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with her daughter, son-in-law Oscar, granddaughters Renae (Jay) and Ivanie (Steven), and great-grandchildren Keaton and Kate. Millie also held very close to her heart all her special cousins, nieces and nephews.
Millie's impact extended far beyond her family and career. She was a driving force be-hind many community projects, including the Civic Center redevelopment and the city park playground enhancements. As President of the Women's Club and an active member of various local organizations – including the American Legion Axillary, hospital guild, the senior center, MT Education Association and Delta Kappa Gamma, Millie embodied the spirit of volunteerism and community service.
Her friends will fondly remember Friday night wine gatherings and card games, mo-ments filled with laughter and camaraderie. Millie's warmth, kindness, and unwavering support touched the lives of everyone she met.
A celebration of Millie's beautiful life and legacy will be held this spring/summer. Her spirit will continue to inspire us, and her memory will forever be etched in our hearts
If you wish, memorials may be sent to Sweet Grass Community Foundation, P.O Box 517,
Big Timber, MT 59011.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Mildred, please visit our Tree Store.