Susan Dickey

Susan Dickey, aged 82, a beloved member of the both the Billings and Missoula communities, passed away unexpectedly on June 12th, 2025. Sue was born on June 14th, 1942, in Newcastle-under-Lyme, England, to Stanley and Kathleen Ballham. Her parents were educators, and this inspired great purpose in Sue. She was raised in Stoke-on-Trent, England, and after studying education at university, moved to Germany, where she taught elementary students for the British Army.  There, she met a handsome American G.I. named Howard Dickey, who had recently finished his tour with the Army.  Their romance developed quickly.  Adventurous in spirit, Sue and Howard pursued backpacking and skiing in Europe whenever possible.  They married in Dusseldorf, Germany on August 28th, 1970.  After marrying, they returned to the States, as Howard and Sue both sought degrees in higher education.   Their shared love of the outdoors and adventure pointed the compass needle West.  Howard, raised in Iowa and reserved in nature, had one firm request.  Given his strong command of life’s real priorities, he mandated that skiing be close and accessible from their new home.  They applied to several colleges, and the University of Montana was the first to respond in kind.  “Terrific,” said Howard, and they were off to join the ranks of Griz Nation.

Unlike other Brits before her, Sue’s presence in the U.S. had tremendous staying power, as she and Howard called Montana home for more than five decades.  She continued her teaching career in Missoula at the University, instructing kindergarten. After a couple of years, she transferred to Mt. Jumbo Elementary (later to become Rattlesnake), where she worked until retiring in 2012.  It is rare for a teacher to retire at age 70, but for Sue, teaching was life’s calling.  Raised with wholesome values, family and togetherness were central to Sue.  She brought people together. Additionally, Sue was a champion of the underdog.  She brought these mantras to the classroom. Sue saw the goodness in all, particularly children, and coaxed potential out of them.  Her belief and conviction in her students were unflappable.  Sue’s most told teaching stories were those of students who overcame setbacks, triumphing in the face of adversity.  In telling such stories, the student was always the key figure, as Sue was too humble to spell out her impact on the child’s development.   

 Sue and Howard welcomed their first child, Sarah, in 1977, followed by Kate in 1982.  They resided in the Missoula/Rattlesnake community until 2021, when they moved to Billings to be near their children and grandchildren.  Sue’s love of community and church was present in her everyday life.  Playing Bridge (the card game) was a daily affair, often accompanied by hosting social gatherings or restaurant dates with friends. 

In addition to her radiant beauty, Sue was a fiercely loyal friend.  She was unwavering and unyielding in her love of others.  She did what the life’s best friends do.  She showed up.  Always.  Sue also possessed a laugh that had a personality entirely its own.  When Sue laughed, it was experienced by all.  This, coupled with her steadfast conviction that no obstacle could prevent a good time, meant that when Sue was present, smiles and laughter ensued.  Her spirit was infectious, and no force could resist it.  Her presence meant that a darn good time was coming.

 Sue will be deeply missed by her husband, Howard, daughters Sarah (Kevin Yedinak) and Kate (Ben Shanks), grandchildren Kylie, Jack, Teddy, Mila, and Mateo, sister Margaret, niece Abi, and nephew Barney, along with many loving friends.  At this time, there will be a small service in Billings with family.  There will be a memorial in Missoula at a later date. The world lost a good one in Sue Dickey.  May she shake the walls of Heaven forever with her contagious and loving laughter.