On the afternoon of March 8, 2024, Barbara DeClue was reunited with her beloved parents and brothers in heaven after a long battle with health issues. The true fighter that Barbara was, pancreatic cancer, being the one fight that she could not win. Finally, at peace, Barbara ascended into heaven with her devoted husband and loving daughter by her side.
Barbara was born on February 9, 1960, to James Joseph Lunney II and Edwina Rosalia (Gallegos) Lunney in Albuquerque, NM. The middle child of five, two (2) brothers and two (2) sisters, were constantly playing pranks on each other and getting up to shenanigans. She loved camping, fishing, and outdoor adventures with her family. Sewing and baking were hobbies she enjoyed. Barbara found happiness in life’s simple pleasures.
In 1988, a charming, funny Missouri man named Jim DeClue got transferred as an Assistant Manager to help run the Osco Drugs store in Butte, MT. Being new to town, Jim met Gary (Barbara’s brother-in-law) and they became fast friends. Then, in 1991, Barbara’s brother-in-law (Gary) invited Jim to a family Thanksgiving dinner. Jim’s goofy sense of humor and charm captured Barbara’s heart that day, and they wed on June 12, 1993. They firmly planted their roots on Butte’s westside and together raised their only child, Courtney Rose.
Throughout her life, Barbara wore many hats, from working at the historic Pekin Noodle Parlor with her mother and younger sister to being an office manager and even partnering with her husband Jim in owning and operating The Rent to Own Store on Front Street in Butte, MT. However, her true impact shone through her nurturing presence, as she played a significant role in the lives of her nieces and nephews, leaving an indelible mark on each of them. But her masterpiece was bringing Courtney Rose into this world and raising her into the beautiful, caring young woman she is today. Barbara’s greatest pleasure in life was her family.
Barbara’s resilience in facing challenges was a testament of her character. With her boundless warmth, kindness, and generosity, she touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion. She was one of those unique souls who could take life’s challenges and use them to improve life for those around her.
As we say goodbye to our dear wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend, we remember what her mother (Edwina) often said, “we’re making memories.” Barbara may be gone, but we will always have the memories.
Barbara was preceded in death by her father, James Lunney II; her mother, Edwina (Gallegos) Lunney; and her two (2) brothers, James “Little Jimmy” Lunney III and Michael Lunney.
Barbara is survived by her husband of 30 years, Jim DeClue of Butte, MT, and their daughter Courtney (Michael Landers) DeClue of Sheridan, MT; her two (2) sisters, Diane (James) Dahy of Helena, MT, and Brenda (Gary) Clark of Ramsay, MT; her two (2) brothers-in-law, Bob (Stephanie Basler) DeClue of St. Genevieve, MO, and Brian (Lisa) DeClue of Springfield, IL; her four (4) nephews, Brandon Clark of Butte, MT, Bryce Clark of Butte, MT, Michael DeClue of Springfield, IL, and Adam DeClue of Springfield, IL; and (6) nieces Rachell (Ryann and Rylee) Williams of Helena, MT, Meghan (Jade) Lunney of Bozeman, MT, Alexandra Dahy of Helena, MT, Victoria Dahy of Helena, MT, Serena (Alysia, Roberto, Lute, Malachi, Sariah, Kyle, and Jaymes) Smith of Great Falls, MT, and Autumn (Annika and Austin) Norris of Great Falls, MT.
Family and friends are asked to call on the afternoon of Thursday, March 14th, beginning at 1:00pm at Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services, located at 2009 Harrison Ave., Butte, MT. A small celebration of life service will proceed where memories and stories of Barbara will be shared.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Barbara.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Barbara and her family.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1 p.m
Thursday March 14, 2024
Axelson Funeral Home
2009 Harrison Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Visitation
1 p.m
Thursday March 14, 2024
Axelson Funeral Home
2009 Harrison Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
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Penny McLaughlin says
Brenda, Brandon, and family, I am sorry to hear about your sister Barbara. My thought and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Missy Mccaul says
Courtney and family,
Very sorry to hear of your loss. Sending much love and many prayers for all of you. Keep your memories tight, they will help you in many ways. Please accept my condolences 🙏
Janice Clark Muniz says
My thoughts and prayers to Diane ( James), Brenda( Gary) and all of Barbara’s family and friends. I know her Mom, Dad and brothers are all waiting with open arms to greet her in Heaven. May her memories hold dear in your hearts. Rest in peace Barbara. (((hugs)))
Janice Clark Muniz
ron kindred says
So SORRY TO HEAR OF Barbaras passing. I went to school with Barb and her brothers. Barb was always a kind sweet person with an infectous smile! My deepest condolences to the family.