Tamara "Tammy" Quilling

Tammy Davis Quilling was born on February 13, 1946, in Newport, Oregon, to Jack and Myrtle Davis, the younger sister of Doug and Pam. Due to her father's occupation, her family moved often, and she attended schools in California, Idaho, North Dakota and Montana. She graduated from North Hollywood, California in 1963. Some of her best school memories were spent attending 7th grade through her sophomore year in Sidney. She always considered Sidney her home, where she made life-long friends, including meeting her future husband, Doug Quilling. She spent many summers with her grandparents Regina and Leo Rivet at their ranch in the Squaw Gap area. She held these memories close throughout her lifetime and shared them often with family.
After High School Graduation, Tammy moved to Billings and lived with her sister Pam. She attended Eastern Montana College, studying nursing. The day she arrived at college and moved into her dorm; she crossed paths with Doug Quilling. This day was the beginning of their future together.
Doug and Tammy were united in marriage on July 3, 1964, at the Nazarene Church in Sidney, MT with their reception held at the Girl Scout Cabin. Mom loved to tell the story of their wedding day. On their wedding day Doug poured cement at his parent's neighbor's house, and she watched him through the window. Grandpa Gordon had to close Quilling's Market down and Dad cleaned up after work; so, their wedding took place at 8:30 pm and it was still 101 degrees in the church!
Doug and Tammy's marriage was blessed with three children. Shane Mitchell was born on January 1, 1965, Leigh Michele on December 18, 1965, and Nikki Jo was born on November 15, 1969. During the early years of their marriage, Mom and Dad raised their family in Sidney. Dad worked in the oil fields which took him away from home often; mom embraced being a wife, mother and homemaker.
In 1978, Mom and Dad built their dream home south of Crane where they remained the rest of their life. Once she raised her kids, mom held various jobs, she spent several years taking care of the babies at Small World Daycare and later in life provided cleaning services for several families in town.
Mom had many talents, but her passion was sewing, knitting and crocheting. She was taught these needle works during the summer months spent with her Grandma Regina. Mom made us girls dresses and shirts through Elementary School. Mom continued this love for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. One of the most endearing things Mom has done was prepare chests of crotched and knitted items for future great grandchildren. Mom is known to spread her talents and love with other families with her home sewn gifts. She always cherished her time with Doug's mom, Nadine, who taught her how to cook and bake. Mom took great pride in being the best wife and mother.
Our Moms' greatest love was her handsome and loving husband Doug, of 50 years. Together they were blessed with 10 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She was the most amazing wife, mother and grandmother. Mom and Dad were so grateful to have four of their grandchildren living right next door where they were able to be part of their daily life. Many trips were taken to visit the other grandchildren who lived in Choteau, MT and in Carson City, Nevada. Dad and Mom did their best attending all the various activities the kids were involved in and were so proud of their accomplishments.
Mom was very compassionate and loved with her whole heart. Throughout her life she had a special way of making others feel good and cared about. She loved sending cards in the mail, whether it was birthdays, anniversaries or just notes to say hello. She loved staying in touch with our extended families and her close friends. Mom could be counted on in the early morning hours on your birthday to get a phone call from her singing happy birthday!
We will all remember her meaningful cards, calls and her love of family. Mom has always been a faithful person, and her love for the Lord is what has kept her strong.
On Thursday, August 7, 2025, Mom was welcomed into her eternal home by her loving husband Doug and her son Shane, passing peacefully away at the age of 79. Mom, you will be missed, and we all love you Mom as much as you have loved us.
Tammy is survived by her two daughters, Leigh (Roger) Merritt and Nikki (Blair) Patton; 10 grandchildren, Chance (Domi), Connor, and Camryn Quilling, Cole (Jenny Klein), Beau (Rachel) and Lexi Prevost, Ali Merritt, Kade (Jaimi) Patton, Tylee (Jace) Harvie and Sayer Patton; 7 great-grandchildren; Shae Quilling, Elliott and Riley Klein-Prevost, Thea, Tyce and Lux Harvie and Jovi Patton; and siblings Doug (Jeanne) Davis and Pam Duckworth.