Sandra J. Wrightson, 88

Our mother, Sandra J. Wrightson, 88, and longtime resident of Columbia Falls, passed away on Nov. 18, 2024 with the comfort of family by her side.  Mom was born in Hamilton, Montana to her parents, Mary Ward Motley and William Dean Motley. She was raised in Darby, Montana and her family is one of the pioneering families of the Bitterroot Valley, making her a fourth generation Montanan.  

She was valedictorian of Darby High School and went on to Dillon, Montana to complete a teaching degree in Elementary Education.  She was a member of the Honor Society in college as well as a member of Phi Delta Kappa teaching sorority.  She completed her education with a Master of Education and Administration degree at the University of Missoula.  

Her love of teaching brought her to elementary schools in several locations in Montana including Missoula, Darby, Grantsdale and Troy.  While in Troy she was honored with Teacher of the Year awards and received the Masters of the Grand Cross of Colors from The Rainbow Girls and Eastern Star. 

 In 1976, she moved from Troy with her family to Columbia Falls and created an award-winning remedial reading program for Columbia Falls High School. 

Her expertise in teaching reading resulted in two prestigious international awards for excellence from the International Reading Association. She was the first Elementary School Principal of Ruder Elementary School in Columbia Falls where she retired after 42 years in education.

Our mother truly was a champion for all children.  She mentored many students, teachers, and her own family to be the best they could be for the benefit of their communities and families.  Mom was also an accomplished musician and artist who loved to travel, swim, paint, read, laugh, sing, and play the piano and ukulele.    

Mom was an extraordinary and loving wife, mother and grandparent.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Jack W. Wrightson as well as her children Lisa Brown, Jay Wrightson and Jess Wrightson.  She is survived by her children Fern Hanley, Jan Osier with Marty, Michael Lee with Stacey Lanham, Leslie Coyne with John, and David Brown; 17 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.  

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to one of these charities: The American Cancer Society, St Jude’ hospital, or any charity related to veterans education or children.  

Our family wishes to thank Logan Health Whitefish hospital for the exceptional support and care provided to mom.  Our sincere gratitude to Dr. White, Dr. Marzo, the nurses, aides, social workers, and support staff for their kindness, compassion, comfort and care extended to mom and our family.  

Additionally, we would like to thank Dr. Kalbfleisch and Glacier Medical Associates for their support and outstanding care given over many years.  

Grave side services will be at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Columbia Falls in the summer of 2025.  To send online condolences visit: columbiamortuary.com. Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for the family.