Merilu Jourdan
October 15, 1952 - October 10, 2023
Obituary
Merilu Jourdan, 70, of Billings, MT, passed away surrounded by loved ones on October 10, 2023, after a courageous 64-day battle with COVID – 19.
Mom was born on October 15, 1952, to Russell and Gloria Jourdan in Fort Collins, CO, immediately bringing joy and laughter into the world. As a young child, she relocated with her family to Billings, MT, and graduated from Billings Senior High in 1970.
Family wasn't the only thing to Mom; it was everything. She embraced the role of a single mother to five boys: Todd, Jourdan, Aaron, Ryan, and Tyler. Her love for them knew no bounds, and she selflessly dedicated herself to their happiness and well-being.
In her pursuit of a better future for her family, Mom returned to school to become a Registered Nurse. A testament to her resilience, endless dedication, and strength, she earned honors while simultaneously caring for her boys – and that didn't stop after she finished school; she often worked night shifts to ensure that she could be there for her boys during the day, demonstrating unyielding dedication to both her profession and her family. As her boys grew into men, her role in their lives transitioned to trusted advisor and close friend, and each of them spoke with her on a near-daily basis. The hole in their lives created by her passing will be impossible to fill.
Mom was not only an amazing mother but also a great friend to many. Her warmth and compassionate nature touched the lives of all who knew her. She had a deep love for dogs, and her furry friends held a special place in her heart.
Later in life, Mom had the joy of connecting with her significant other, William (Bill) Wrightson, at their 30th High School Reunion. Their love blossomed, and for 23 years, Bill was her steadfast rock, partner, and father figure to her boys.
Above all else, Mom's heart belonged to her grandchildren: Sydney, Draike, Nelson, Bronson, Logan, Russell, Owen, Xander, Julia, and Hudson. They were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Mom was predeceased by her parents, brother Jason Jourdan, son Ryan Guidice, and grandson Draike. She is survived by her partner Bill Wrightson; sons, Todd (Christie) Jourdan, Jourdan (Jessica Cozzens) Guidice, Aaron (Danielle Bordeaux) Guidice, and Tyler (Tina) Guidice; nine grandchildren; brothers Michael (Anne), David (Gayle), and Robert (Jenni); and her in-laws Tom and Joyce (Guidice) Rademaker.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mom's name to the Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter or your favorite animal charity. Services will be held at Dahl Funeral Chapel on October 15, 2023, at 11:30 am. A celebration of life will be held at a future date.