Jeanne E. Gilman age 55 of White Sulphur Springs

Shortly after entering the world on February 28, 1965, Jeanne Frisbie Gilman was inadvertently, although temporarily switched at birth. Coincidently, the switched baby was Shannon McGuire Barrett who became a childhood and lifelong friend of Jeanne’s. 

The daughter of Zane and Linda Frisbie of White Sulphur Springs, Jeanne joined four siblings. She attended White Sulphur Springs elementary and high schools where she excelled academically and was epecially talented in art and interested in Spanish. Then principal, Roy Swan, affectionately gave Jeanne the nickname, Jeanne Weenie Hot Dish, a takeoff on the cafeteria staple, Beanie Weenie. Always quick-witted and observant, Jeanne saw the world from a slightly different slant, seeing the humor in almost every situation. She enjoyed giving nicknames and acronyms to interesting individuals (often without heir knowledge). They were never malicious, but humorous and fitting.

 Jeanne attended Montana State University Billings pursuing a degree in education. While attending college, she married her high school sweetheart and lifelong partner, Richard (Rick) Gilman at St.  Bartholomew Catholic Church, in White Sulphur Springs, on August 17, 1984. Ever fond of children, she was thrilled with the arrival of their first son, Craig Russell. He was subsequently followed by brother, Kevin James, and sister Kelly Jean and somewhat later another sister Carli Renee. Successfully balancing the demands of family and education, she completed her degree and went on to work at Head Start, Play and Grow Preschool, and White Sulphur Springs High School. She had a bulletin board in her classroom where she posted education, inspirational and humorous sayings gathered from famous people, and equallyfamous family members and friends. Every student was equally special and important.

 Jeanne was always up for anything fun. Jeanne organized annual “girl trips” out of town for sisters, mom and girlfriends to “improve their intellect.” She was a part of a loosely knit group of teachers and former teachers (to remain nameless) which accounted for lots of hilarious memories and adventures. A friend recalls a time during the Labor Day festivities when she and Jeanne were sitting in an alley off Main Street during a street dance. They would converse with all passersby, many of which were far from sober and on their way to drain some spirits behind some less than hidden vehicle.

 Jeanne and Rick built their lives together in the community of White Sulphur. She was proud of the town and surrounding area and turned her artistic talents to photography to share with others. She was a “bird nerd”, studying native birds and habits and passed on that knowledge.Her love for her children and grandchildren was unsurpassable. She drove cross-country to help them move, sat in on surgeries, constantly babysat, attended preschool and was always available for them. Holiday meals and birthday celebrations often took place at the Gilman household. Jeanne’s generous spirit made these gatherings merry and enjoyable for the friends and family that attended year after year.

 Jeanne could always be depended on to uplift one’s spirits. She had at her instant disposal humorous sayings or stories to make even the most depressed individual feel better. Sometimes her comments ran to the slightly naughty, but that was part of her charm. 

Her zest for life, her sense of humor, and her positive attitude were ever apparent during the four years she battled with cancer. Her companion, caregiver and loving husband faithfully stayed by her side throughout it all. Surrounded by family, she joined her Lord and Savior on October 2, 2020.

 Jeanne is preceded in death by her father, Zane Frisbie Sr. She is survived by her husband, Rick Gilman; her mother, Linda Frisbie; in-laws Russell and Barb Gilman; sons Craig (Ally) Gilman, Kevin (Carrie) Gilman, daughters Kelly and Carli Gilman; grandchildren Jonathan, Cole, Elliott, and Connor; sisters Zita (Doug) Caltrider; Gail (Larry) Wilcott; brother Paul (Kim) Frisbie; sister in law Sheila (Virgil) Lohr and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  

Jeanne’s dream was to establish a fund to help local cancer victims and their families with expenses for gas, lodging and food. Memorials and future contributions can be made to the Mountainview Medical Center; Attn: Jeanne Gilman Cancer Fund. This is Jeanne’s way to pay forward all the generous community support during her illness. 

No services are planned. 

 There is a huge vacancy in the world with the passing of Jeanne Gilman. But it is a better place having known the sparkling personality, quick smile, cryptic remarks, contagious laughter, and undying devotion of Jeanne Gilman. 

Service Schedule

Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.

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