Patricia Anderson Obituary

Patricia "Pat" Joyce Anderson was born September 8, 1929, in Glendive, Montana, to George and Elsie (White) Schultz. She treasured her childhood and the early years that shaped her love of family and community.

Pat graduated from Dawson County High School in 1947 and went on to attend the University of Montana, where she joined the Tri Delta sorority. She often spoke fondly of her years in the sorority house and the lifelong friendships she formed there. She married the love of her life, James R. Anderson, on April 15, 1950. Together they raised five children, building a home filled with love, hard work, and strong family ties.

Pat also pursued a successful 20-year career in real estate, earning respect for her professionalism and care for others. Once their children were grown, Pat and Jim enjoyed traveling and eventually settled in Anacortes, Washington, where they built a second home and embraced a new chapter together.

A woman of many talents, Pat was an accomplished seamstress, woodworker, and artist. She loved to create with her hands. Pat enjoyed being surrounded by all the colorful things she designed. She was also an avid reader and a wonderful cook, known for the meals and memories she shared around her table. More than anything, Pat cherished her family. She delighted in meaningful conversations over coffee and time spent with those she loved most.

Pat also gave generously of her time through volunteer work. For several years she helped at Independent Elementary School's library, where her daughter Nicky worked. She spent countless hours processing books, assisting children as they checked out materials, and even helped convert the library's system to automation. She also volunteered at the Yellowstone Art Museum, where her love of art found another meaningful outlet.

Pat passed away surrounded by her family on August 24, 2025, in Billings, Montana. She is survived by her children Pam (Fred) Garland, Craig (Deb) Anderson, Scott (Connie) Anderson, and Nicky (Sheldon) Wolf; her grandchildren Seth (Renee) Garland, Blake (Robin) Anderson, Logan Hegg, Sophie (Chris) Magnuson, Susie (David) Megorden, Scott (Abigail) Wolf, and Ellie (Adam) Zwemke; her great-grandchildren Elodie, Sophie, Lily, Amelia, Shepherd, Baby Zwemke, Gabe and Allison; her sister, Donna Cornett and sister in law Jackie Schultz along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Jim, her parents, her daughter, Vanessa Hegg; and her brother, Jim Schultz.

Pat's legacy is one of creativity, warmth, and deep connection. She will be remembered for her bold and vibrant spirit, strong will, curiosity for life, and devotion to family.

The memorial service will be Sunday, September 7th at 2:00 pm at Atonement Lutheran Church in Billings Heights. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to any organizations that help and support children. Two organizations we support are: Family Tree of Billings or Tumbleweed.