Nola Ann Reece
Nola Ann Reece passed away Sunday, May 19th at Horizon Hospice in Billings, Montana. Nola was born in Billings, Montana to Bert and Cleone “Peggy” Reece on May 25, 1955. She was their “miracle baby” for she was born with a congenital heart defect which required numerous trips to Denver, Colorado for treatment and eventual heart surgery at the age of 2. Many doctors at the time did not give much hope to Bert and Peggy but Nola inherited their strong will and determination. She recovered from surgery and lived a full life.
She grew up in Billings, attending Billings Senior High where she graduated in 1973. After high school she attended Eastern Montana College while working for her father’s business at Crossroads Grocery store in the Heights. She married Daniel Bummer in 1975. Together they constructed several homes in the Billings Heights. In 1978 Nola gave birth to a son, Jacob. Nola often said it was her destiny to be a mom and she was supremely devoted to her only son.
In 1978 she began a long and successful photography business, Classic Photography, for which she was immensely proud of. She photographed over 750 weddings over an illustrious 31 year career.
Nola enjoyed life and her family greatly. Her favorite time of year was Christmas as she often wanted to emulate the Christmases she enjoyed as a child at her Grandma Rhoda’s. She threw extravagant feasts and often purchased extra presents in case someone should arrive unexpectedly and didn’t have a gift to receive.
She enjoyed fly fishing, cooking, reading, traveling, writing, gardening, attending her son’s football games, and the company of her closest friends and family. Nola was a caring, smart, thoughtful, funny, charming, and stunningly beautiful woman.
She is preceded in death by her father Bert Reece; mother Cleone “Peggy” Reece; and brother David Murray. She is survived by her son Jacob Bummer; brother Michael Reece (Cheryl); and three sisters Linda (Pete) McDougal of Medina, Ohio, Ramona Murray of Medina, Ohio, and Goldie Davis of Nashville, Tenn.; with nieces Pamela Egloff, Tammy McCleary, Carrie McCall, and nephew Jason McDougal.
Cremation has taken place. Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, May 23, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary.
“Happy is the mother when her heart's wish is answered, and happy are sons when they can feel that they have contributed to her noble purpose, and in some measure, repaid her unceasing, unwavering love and devotion.”
Remembrances
Please leave your name and remembrance in this public guest book. Your comments will be shared on this page and forwarded to the family.
My love to you, as Nola's beloved son. She was a gracious and fabulous soul. First and foremost, she loved her Jake. I loved Nola with all my heart. Sunday's news came as such a surprise. I was to see her as soon as I was home, only to hear the news that she will be with her angels.
God bless you, Jake. I will truly miss the "Fabulous Miss Reece", my adored friend and confidant.
Love and Blessings,
Jewel Hanson
Nola was a wonderful young woman. I was her student teacher back in 1973 in the accounting area at Senior High School. In 1980 she took my wedding pictures. She loved life and had such a creative nature. Her photography was excellent because she gave way to a free spirit. I loved her smile, her eagerness to please, and her true love of life. May God bless you and please remember she is watching over you as a new star in the heavens. Julie Myers O'Dell
My love and prayers to you Jacob. Nola had a heart of gold and now God is holding her dear to his heart. May you find peace knowing she is watching over you. God Bless you.
Barbara French