Melvina M. Christ (Willie), 95 of Hamilton, passed away December 28, 2023 in her home with family by her side. She was born July 30, 1928 in LaMoure, North Dakota, the daughter of William and Margaret (Tischer) Williams. Willie dedicated her life to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at a very young age and lived a life of love and service to others. Her mother was widowed at a young age and alone raised five children during the Great Depression Era. Willie enrolled in St. Joseph’s School of Nursing, Fargo, North Dakota immediately following her graduation 1949 and began her nursing career at Trinity Hospital in Jamestown, North Dakota. Hers was a meager salary, nonetheless she regularly sent a portion of her earnings home in support of her mother and siblings. Soon thereafter, while nursing she met Robert J. Christ, Jr. The two were wed in Jamestown November 26, 1950 and began their lives together on Robert’s farm near his birthplace of Wimbledon, ND.
Willie and Bob made their house a home that was built on the strong foundation of faith in Christ. The four children, Glenn, John, Jane and James (Jim) filled their lives with joy as they worked together with their parents to build a successful Grade A registered Holstein dairy and farming operation. Bob applied the knowledge he gained in his studies of agricultural sciences to constantly improve the cattle and crops. Willie added her love for gardening and landscaping to create a beautiful setting. She preserved the fruits and vegetables she produced and used them to make fabulous meals and baked goods. Friends and families who dropped by were always welcomed inside for a cup of coffee, sweet treat, or a full-course meal. Willie was a talented seamstress whose works were worn by the family and adorned the home. She was active in the community serving in numerous church and school-related activities such as Ladies’ Aid, Sunday School and PTA. Bob and Willie were members of several agriculture-related organizations and their advice was regularly sought by others. Willie’s nursing skills never grew rusty. They were utilized by her immediate family as well as members of the community. In a winter blizzard a snow plow followed by an ambulance arrived at the farm to implore Willie to assist them as they were called to fetch a neighbor who was about to give birth. While on the way to the hospital, Willie delivered a healthy baby boy! The four children were active in 4-H where they were tasked with projects that added to the skills taught by their parents. The family competed in state and county summer fairs where their cattle and projects won numerous awards. Their cattle were purchased by dairymen who saw the rewards the bloodlines could bring to their herds.
Bob and Willie made a very difficult decision to sell the entire operation in North Dakota and moved the family in 1970 to the beautiful Bitterroot Valley. The family’s involvement in agriculture continued as they settled at 282 Skalkaho Highway. Once again they built their home on the strong foundation of faith. They joined the Methodist Baptist Federated Church in 1970 and Willie remained a faithful member up to her death. The property was dramatically improved as they applied their unique talents. Willie’s gifted “green thumb” beautifully enhanced the property with trees, flowers, and vegetable gardens. At the same time, Bob’s energy was dedicated to supporting the family both in ranching and in real estate. Willie was active in the church, school and community organizations. Bob and Willie were members and officers of Rocky Mountain Grange for over 25 years. Willie believed in the mission and supported the Trapper Creek Job Corps. Still, Willie found time to make beautiful quilts that were generously given to her family. She made sure to personalize each quilt made for her family, down to the newest great-grandchild. She generously donated numerous other quilts her busy little hands created to those in the community in need. Willie’s love of Jesus, family, gardening and all things pleasant in life (especially Scrabble) made her a very special friend who will be sorely missed by all who had the joy of knowing her.
Willie’s husband, Robert, two sons, Glenn and John, and grandson Nicholas (Nick) Christ preceded her in death. She is survived by her daughter Jane and husband Tim Bailey of Hamilton, son (James) Jim of Belgrade, 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services officiated by Rev. Dan Huggins will be held Saturday, January 13, 2024 at the United Methodist American Baptist Church, 211 N. 6th Street, Hamilton at 2:00 p.m. A family graveside service immediately follows. Those attending the church service are welcome to join us at Daly-Leach Chapel, 1010 W. Main St. Hamilton for a luncheon reception celebration of her life. There will be opportunities to share memories and stories of Willie at that time.
In lieu of flowers, Willie wished memorials were made to the UMAB Church in Hamilton, Bitterroot Health Hospice, American Cancer Society or Trapper Creek Job Corps. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.