Sally Ann Taylor

1946 - 2025

Sally Ann Taylor (Allestad), 79, a lifelong resident of Sweet Grass County, passed away in Big Timber on October 29, 2025, from complications of heart failure.

Sally was born in Livingston, Montana, on May 2, 1946, a twin daughter of Ludvig and Bertha Allestad. She always loved to tell the story that she "kicked her twin sister Sonja out," as she was born a full hour after Sonja-much to the surprise of their mother, who hadn't known she was carrying twins.

She was raised on the family ranch on Wild Cat Creek, where she truly "lived the wild life as an old-time ranch kid." Sally told stories of fishing the creeks, riding horses, keeping all kinds of animals as pets, and even playing with rattlesnakes (using sticks). She grew up working alongside her parents and siblings on the ranch and in the high mountain sheep camps. She attended various rural schools, including the Sourdough School, and graduated from Sweet Grass County High School in 1965. She remained a proud alumna, attending every class reunion, including her 60th last summer.

After high school, Sally remained on the ranch until she met her future husband, William (Bill) Taylor, at an annual BBQ in September 1969. It took them two weeks to connect again, and Bill often recalled how he hoped she "wouldn't get away" and move to Gillette, Wyoming, to stay with her twin.

His hope was realized. Bill and Sally were married at the Big Timber Lutheran Church on June 6, 1970. They made their home in Big Timber, where they raised their three daughters: Glenda, Wendy, and Susie.

Sally loved puzzles, playing cards and board games, with her favorites being the marble game Wahoo, pinochle, and rummy. Her true passion and claim to fame, however, was her crocheting. Taught by a neighbor when her children were young, she became known for her ripple afghan blankets. Each was crafted with such precise detail and tightness that their warmth was undeniable. She lost count of the hundreds she made and gifted over the years.

When she wasn't crocheting, Sally could be found fishing in local lakes, ponds and streams, hiking, taking drives on country roads, or simply visiting with friends and family. She was an active member of the Big Timber Lutheran Church and the Women of the Moose.

Sally is survived by her husband of 55 years, Bill; her daughters, Glenda, Wendy, and Susie; granddaughter, Michaela; twin sister, Sonja Osborne; brother, Lawrence Allestad; sister-in-law, Elaine Allestad; as well as many close cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her oldest sister, Astrid Lorash; and an infant brother, Lawrence A. (1937)

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Big Timber Lutheran Church, with Reverend Julia Seymour officiating. Following her wishes, Sally will be cremated and her ashes spread in the places dear to her heart. In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations can be made to Crazy Mountain Museum.