Our beloved mother, niece, sister, Jonita Elaine Bear –Wahóhpi Waste Winyan (Good Nest Woman) made her journey into the spirit world on October 22, 2019 to go be with her many beloved relatives that went on before her.
Jonita was born on December 13, 1979 to Evelyn “Connie” Constance Bear in Poplar, MT. Jonita was raised and much loved by her Grandma Josephine. Jonita was raised in Brockton, attended school in Brockton and graduated a Brockton Warrior on May 1998. Jonita was raised around a Pow-wow family. Her mother and grandmother had her in the pow-wow dancing arena at an early age. She loved to dance traditional; she also was a part of the Badland pow-wow committee at an early age. After graduating high school, Jonita became a proud mother to Kiera Riley Jo, she adored her and loved her with all her heart. Jonita loved and cared for her grandmother Josephine up until the day of Grandma Jo’s death. Jonita was an assistant cook for the Brockton School and the Elderly program up until her death. Jonita loved to be around her family and friends, especially her beloved daughters, Kiera and Waverly Bear as they were her pride and joy. She loved her cats and dogs and loved her companion Neal who was by her side until her death.
Jonita is survived by her one and only daughter, Kiera Riley Jo and her adopted daughter, Waverly Jolaine of Brockton; aunts, Glenda Crawford of Sisseton, SD, Vernita Bear, Roberta Bird, Valerie Todd of Brockton; grandmother, Doris Spotted Bird of Brockton; adopted mother, Doris “Ducky” Bird of Brockton; sisters, Jody (Monte) Thompson, Emma (Brian) GreyBull of Sisseton, SD, Melody Bear of Brockton; brothers, Donald “Sonny Boy” Iceman III, Merlino, Wayan, Randen Bear of Brockton; Uncles Elwayne Rush Sr., and Theo Crowe and numerous relatives near and far.
Jonita also was a beloved grandmother to 13 grandchildren from South Dakota. Jonita will be missed by all her family and friends.
Jonita is preceded in death by her mother, Connie Bear; grandmother, Josephine Black Dog; adopted father, Ed “Nickey” Crawford; auntie, Wilma Bear; uncles, Merlin Yellow Owl, Gerald Bear Sr., Lyle Bear; brothers, Edwin “Jack” Crawford, Gerald Bear Jr.; sister, Miranda Crawford; niece, Abrielle Jackson; and grandson, JR; grandmas, Viola, Catherine, Melvine, Carole Spotted Bird, and grandpa, Leland Spotted Bird.
Condolences for the family may be left using the form below.
Nikki Crawford says
We love you sooo much auntie/grandma Jonita 😭😭 Sending my condolences and prayers to my MT family 🙏🏼❤️ Tell my grandpa ED “Nicky” and my auntie Miranda we love and miss them. May you Rest In Peace my beautiful angel 💜💕 love your niece and grandchildren from S.D. Nikki, Jorell and Deanna❤️
Susan Hanson says
Sending sincere condolences to Jonita’s family and friends. I am so sad to hear this news. Jonita was always such a sweet spirit.
Felisha says
I’ll forever remember how kind, caring and loving you were. You accepted people for who they were, no matter their situation. I knew I lf I needed someone, anyone I could go to you. Your door was always open. You were such an awesome person to be around. I could show up and my worries would go away. I remember being your “DJ” at your house. You would always give me the remote to the music 😥 and I remember them good jams would enjoy singing loud and we didn’t care who heard us. You always let me cry and then cheer me up. Singing them roundy songs with you will always be my best memories! Have a safe journey home my friend. Your mom and other mother your grandma jo are right there waiting for you 😥 I’m sorry I can’t be there to send you off into the spirit world, my friend. Until we meet again 😥 Love Your Friend Forever, Feash
Melissa G. Melton-Buckles says
My sincere condolences to all the family, you are in my prayers.
jazz says
I really miss you Auntie Jo. you were always there when I needed you and Keira. I wish I was there for your funeral. I just heard about your death yesterday. I Pray you have a good journey and that your are safe where ever you are. I love you! <3
~ your niece Jazz.