Dena Lynn Salois, 53, unexpectedly lost her life on the 21st of February. It is an understatement to describe her as one of the most loving and selfless individuals. She was an incredible cook, a cherished daughter, sister, and friend, but most of all she was the most loving mother and grandmother.

Dena was born on June 12th, 1971, to John and Darlene Poindexter in Fort Benton, Montana. She was raised and attended school in Geraldine until graduating in 1989.

Dena raised 4 beautiful children. Dena's love for her children was profound; she instilled in them the importance of gratitude and living life to the fullest. Her nurturing spirit, a beautiful inheritance from her own mother, shone through in her cooking and baking, which brought joy to her family and friends.

Dena's grandchildren were her world, even if they weren't biologically hers, she treated them all the same; they were all her grandchildren in her eyes. She showered them all with love, snacks, and the occasional ice cream for breakfast…lunch…and dinner, when their parents were looking of course.

You could not have met a kinder person, especially one that was willing to help without expecting anything in return. She simply was one of a kind. Her ability to tell dirty jokes that could make anyone blush or feel embarrassed will be deeply missed. She had a remarkable talent for bringing a smile to anyone's face and turning their day around, whether it was through her baked goods, soups, pies, and casseroles, or simply having a conversation.

Known affectionately as the town's "MOM," Dena was always just a call away, day or night. She mothered all the children, whether they wanted it or not; that's what everyone loved about her.

Dena enjoyed going for drives in the country, whether it was to go gopher hunting, or take pictures of whatever caught her eye that day. Her artistic eye allowed her to seize moments others might miss, bringing the world's beauty to life in her photographs. No outing was complete without her abrupt stops to photograph sunsets, animals, and of course clouds.

Dena was preceded in death by her mother, Darlene Poindexter.

Dena is survived by her father, John Poindexter; her children: Brett (Mari) Salois, Adam Salois, Kenzie (Douglas) Rose and Rachael Salois; grandchildren: Grey Salois and Aaron Eisenzimer; sisters: Tracie Poindexter, Tami (Dan) Stine and Kristy Poindexter; several nieces and nephews, cousins, and many lifelong friends that she kept close in her heart.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 2:00 pm. at the Geraldine High School gymnasium. Reception to follow. Donations can be made to Benton Funeral Home, memo "Dena Salois".  Please visit Dena's online memorial page to send a card or leave a message of condolence for her family at www.bentonfh.com.