Melissa White Eagle Cantrell, Wichapi Ota Winyan (Many Stars Woman), passed away at the Billings Clinic on Saturday, December 11, 2021. She grew up around the Chelsea and Poplar area when she was a young girl. As a young lady, she moved in with her sister, JoAnn in California, where she met her husband, Courtney. They lived in California until the late 60’s. While in California, she was encouraged to get a nursing degree. She became a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Melissa worked as a nurse in California and Montana. She was a very caring person. After moving back to Wolf Point, she worked at the hospital, L&M Cleaners with her sister-in-law, Dorrine who she said made work enjoyable. Then Faith Home till she hurt her back. She then worked at Silver Wolf Casino as a cook. She loved her job, especially her coworkers. They were fun to work with, laughing and having fun.
Some of the things she loved were family get-togethers, watching her children and grandchildren participate in sports, school events, and celebrations that her children and grandchildren participated in singing and dancing.
Later in life, she accepted Jesus Christ into her life. She attended the Overcomers Church, loved bible study, revivals, and retreats. When she was not able to attend, she enjoyed her visits with Pastor Lindsay and taking communion.
When she was able to travel she loved visiting her girls who are scattered in the United States.
She was a listening ear for many throughout the years that needed to talk. She was encouraging and kind but she could give you a talking to if needed.
Her children and grandchildren’s friends became her friends also. There are many who call her mom, grandmother, sister, auntie, and cousin. They all loved her dearly and she loved them all. You all know who you are. Mom was one special lady.
Melissa is survived by her daughters, Della Pipestem, Juanita Cantrell, Jonny Lee Bearcub, of Wolf Point, Montana; Rosalind Tompkins, of Spokane, Washington, Georgia (Brian) Dupuis, of Columbus, New Jersey, Carla (Ron) Soto, of Lacy, Washington; son, Michael j. (Earleen) Cantrell, of Poplar, Montana; sisters, Vivian Jones, Louella (Michae) Contreas, Ida Rae Cantrell, Mary Wolfchild, and Sylvia Cantrell; brothers, Jeffery Douglas, Leonard, Art, Otto Jr., and Virgil Cantrell; cousins, Rosemary Morsette and Agnes Ward; grandchildren, Melissa Medicine stone, Marie Castro, Adrian, Phillip Jr., Stephen and Verle Pipestem, Dylan and Dyan Youpee, Malachi Stops, Gregory, Kimmy, and Tina Azure, Tia Marie Bush, Courtney Cantrell-Rios, Nigel and Theresa Bluestone, Raven Martinez, Christina and Victor Ortega, Vanessa Soto, Brian and Andre Dupuis, and Jodene and Joshua Stiffarm; and numerous great-grandchildren with three on the way.
Melissa is preceded in death by her husband, Courtney R. Cantrell, Sr., father, James White Eagle; mother, Roselyn Davis; the aunt who raised her as her own daughter, Christine Davis Douglas; sons, Courtney R. Cantrell, Jr, and Verle Cantrell; sisters, JoAnn White Eagle, Mildred (Midge) Clancy; brothers, Leroy, Steven, Arnold, William, Duane, Jesse, and John Douglas; grandchildren, Frederick Medicine Stone, Jeremy Stiffarm, Kipp Stiffarm, and Winona Youpee.
A wake will be held on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. at the New Wolf Point Community Hall. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 17, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at the New Wolf Point Community Hall. Interment will follow at St. Ann’s Cemetery.
Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left using the form below.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Friday December 17, 2021
New Community Hall
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
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Shari Daniels says
My sincere condolences to all of her family.
Cissy Eagleman says
Auntie I love you and will miss you always. I know your Journey began with much heart break & tears on this side. But it also began with family that have gone before you on the other side. They were waiting patiently so they can guide you to heaven. From where you came…you now return. You have taken piece of my heart with you.
Prayers of comfort for her Children, Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, the rest of Auntie’s family and friends…now and all the days to come.
Florence Fourstar says
My prayers and sincere sympathy for Melissa’s family, In the coming days ahead, may God comfort you all
Carla Cantrell says
“I love you always” I missed you before you went on the spirit journey Everytime we talked I cried because God/Creator has blessed me with a mother like you. I know how much you loved me.”I love you always” is what we said to each other. I know your with your Mom now. Your love & powerful prayers for me to always trust in Jesus. he heard you mom. Jesus holds me as my tears fall.You are my heart. “I love you always”
Rosi Fox says
You were a blessing, a light and showed unconditional love to so many….
You will never be forgotten…. Your soul will live on and on to continue to be a blessing, a light and love!
Restful sleep Mama.
Marvin B says
Condolences to Juanita and the rest of the family.
She’s up there with Tunkashina and the rest of your family.
Louella Douglas-Contreras says
To my beautiful sister…I am going to miss you, but I know you do not have pain or suffering now. I pray for your journey sis…rest well till I see you again. I love you.
Patt Iron Cloud says
Hugs and Love sent to her beautiful family. God will guide her gently home to be with her folks and loved ones. What a joyous reunion. We are sure going to miss her.
Linda says
Your Daughter Georgia talked about you when we were station together in the Air Force. She loved you dearly and unconditional. Rest in peace my dear.
Jean Archdale says
Della, i am so sorry to read of your moms passing, I lost my mom 2 years ago this month, it is hard to say goodbye to our moms at anytime but especially at Christmas time, I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers in the coming weeks ahead.
Jeannie Archdale