Joanne Elaine (Ophus) Kibbee, age 78 of Big Sandy, passed away on December 12, 2021 in Great Falls, Montana. Memorial contributions in Joanne's honor may be made to The Shriners Hospital for Children  911 W. 5th Ave. Spokane, WA 99204, K-9 Companions/Montana Grand Chapter of Eastern Star P.O. Box 515 White Sulpher Springs, MT 59645, or to a memorial of one's choice.

Joanne was born on October 28, 1943 to Alfred and Lois (Littlefield) Ophus. She was the oldest of their 3 children being raised on the family farm southeast of Big Sandy. Joanne attended Big Sandy High School, graduating with the class of 1961 and then went on to graduate in 1963 with an associate degree in Business from Northern Montana College. While attending college, she met the love of her life, Harry R. Kibbee. They were married June 15, 1963 and brought into this union their two daughters, April and Karen.

Joanne lived all of her life with her family in Big Sandy, working most of that time for her father in the family business, Ophus Tax Service.  She would eventually buy out her father and she was still working on taxes until her death. Joanne also worked countless years as the City of Big Sandy water clerk and town clerk.  She and Harry also owned Harry's Upholstery shop in town and she would help Harry in her spare time.

Joanne was dedicated to creating and playing music.  As a member for over 50 years of the Big Sandy Methodist Church she played for Sunday Services, weddings, and funerals. Not just in Big Sandy and not just in the Methodist Church.  She enjoyed playing the piano at home when the grandkids were around.

Joanne was a 50+ year member at Bear Paw Chapter #100 and Bethany Chapter #42, Order of Eastern Star. She held various Grand Offices at times but none that she was more proud of than the two different 8 year terms as Grand Treasure for Montana Grand Chapter.  She made many friends during her travels for Grand Chapter and valued those friendships.  She was most pleased when both of her daughter's followed in her footsteps and joined Star also.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Lois, her husband, Harry and a son-in-law, Darryl Clark.

Joanne is survived by her daughters April Clark of Jackson Minnesota, and  Karen Kibbee of Fort Benton, Montana. Grandson, Brad Rector, step granddaughter, Nicholle Clark, and great granddaughters: Nyameh and Samara Clark all of Jackson, Minnesota.  Her brothers, Glenn (Linda) Ophus of Big Sandy, Montana, and Gary (Eulalie) Ophus of Helena, Montana. Numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.