Irma Lagenia Jones

Lanie (Irma) Jones passed away on May 21, 2026, in Dillon, Montana, surrounded by her loving husband and children, who cared for and comforted her through the years. Born on September 9, 1955, in Albany, Georgia, she was the daughter of Harold and Dorothy Oliver.

Lanie embodied kindness, compassion, and generosity. She treasured her roles as wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and devoted caregiver to the many animals she loved throughout her life. Her patient listening ear, warm hospitality, and home-cooked meals were the ways she expressed love and brought comfort to those around her.

At the age of sixteen, Lanie met the love of her life, Cecil, in Albany. Their journey together carried them across the country before they made their home in Dillon in 1984. Together they raised three children-Kelley, Clayton, and Katie-and celebrated fifty years of marriage last June. Their marriage was a true love story, built on friendship, devotion, and unwavering companionship. They were each other's favorite person in the world.

Being a mother was Lanie's greatest joy, and becoming a grandmother brought her immense happiness. She cherished every moment spent with her beloved grandson, Lawrence, whether teaching him to bake, conducting science experiments, or reading stories together. Her happiest moments were often spent outdoors-gardening, fishing, and caring for the many animals she adored. Through these passions, she cultivated a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world.

Lanie turned her degree in microbiology into a rewarding career as the Beaverhead County Health Inspector, serving the community for many years while also working with Madison County. She took great pride in helping new restaurant owners and entrepreneurs bring their dreams to life. Her curiosity, determination, and lifelong love of learning also led her to become an accomplished horsewoman and to earn a degree in Natural Horsemanship from the University of Montana Western.

Lanie's kindness and compassion touched countless lives, leaving the world brighter for everyone who knew her. As a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, she leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and unconditional love. Though she will be profoundly missed, we are deeply grateful for the time we shared with her.

Lanie is survived by her husband, Cecil Jones; her children, Kelley Owenby, Clayton and Desiree Jones, her grandson, Lawrence Jones, and Katie and Nathan McBee. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Dorothy Oliver, and her siblings, Gene and Anita Oliver.

In lieu of a formal memorial service, Lanie requested that everyone spend a day with their families, cherishing the precious moments they share together.