Janette G. Rutledge

Janette Gail Dean Rutledge, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, joined her Savior on May 12, 2026, at the age of 83, surrounded by her devoted family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and steadfast faith.

Janette was born on March 8, 1943, in Miles City, Montana, to Rankin and Helen Dean (Stitser). She was the cherished sister of Norma and Timothy.

She spent her childhood in Ekalaka, Montana, where she grew up alongside David Rutledge. Although they first met in first grade, it wasn’t until after high school that their relationship truly blossomed. They married and shared 61 wonderful years together, building a life rooted in love, partnership, and faith.

Jan was a devoted mother to her daughters, Darci and Jill, and warmly welcomed their husbands, Uwe Schaider and Mike Follett, as her own sons. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Natalie and Madelaine, daughters of Darci and Uwe, and to David and Catherine, children of Jill and Mike. Her family was the center of her life, and she treasured every moment with them.

Jan dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a nurse, receiving her education at Carroll College in Helena, Montana. Nursing was more than a profession to her—it was a reflection of her generous heart and a lifelong calling to serve others with kindness and grace.

Her unwavering faith was the foundation of her life and a source of strength to those around her. She lived it out daily, touching countless lives through her quiet care.

Jan and David shared many happy years on their ranch in Ekalaka, Montana, and spent winters in Surprise, Arizona, where she found joy in life’s simple pleasures: cooking meals for those she loved, tending her garden, quilting, and creating a warm and welcoming home.

She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, faith, and love, which shaped the way she lived and cared for others. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her daughters, Darci Schaider (Uwe) and Jill Follett (Mike); her grandchildren; and many beloved family members and friends whom she cherished deeply.

Donations in Jan’s memory may be made to St. John’s United Spiritual Care Campaign, Beaver Lodge Cemetery in Ekalaka, Montana, or a charity of your choice.

Funeral mass to be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church (2055 Woody Dr, Billings, MT 59102) at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, May 20th, 2026.

St. John’s United Spiritual Care Campaign
3940 Rimrock Rd.
Billings, MT 59102

Beaver Lodge Cemetery
400 S. Central Ave
Ekalaka, MT 59304