J.B. Hendrix - March 3, 1939 - April 20, 2025

    J.B. “Jay” Hendrix, a long-time resident of Hall, Mont., passed away on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the age of 86. Born in Happy, Texas, Jay spent most of his life in the wide-open beauty of Montana, a place he loved deeply.
    He grew up on a ranch in the Blackfoot Valley with his parents, J.J. (Bill) and Elsie Hendrix, and his younger sister, Patricia (Pat). Later, the family moved to Hall, Mont., where they established a new ranch. It was there he met the love of his life, Sandy. Together they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and community, raising two children, Chris Jay Hendrix and Loni Jo Hendrix Wade.
    Jay was a true rancher at heart. He loved the land, the animals and the honest labor that came with that life. He built a legacy of strength, selflessness and quiet devotion—showing love more through action than words. Though he may have looked like a tough old rancher on the outside, those who truly knew him saw the deep kindness and compassion that lived at his core.
    Jay served the community he loved in many ways. He was a longtime member of the Volunteer Fire Department. He also served on the local water board and was a wealth of knowledge to neighbors and fellow ranchers alike. Whether offering advice, helping manage resources, or simply showing up when someone needed him, Jay gave of himself freely. His service was never about recognition—it was simply who he was.
    He was always willing to lend a helping hand, share what he had and support those around him with a genuine and heartfelt care. He formed lasting bonds through early morning coffee, laughter and a good dose of storytelling—or, as he’d say, a little BS with his friends.
    In his later years, Jay was blessed to be served by compassionate hands—people who helped him navigate the challenges and limitations of aging with dignity and care. He was always grateful, always trying to help even when he no longer could.
    Jay was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandy, and his son, Chris Jay Hendrix. He is survived by Chris’s wife, Laura Hendrix, and their children: Jaclyn, James, Jay and Josh Hendrix. He is also survived by his daughter, Loni Jo Wade, and her husband, Kevin Wade; their children, Sean Wade and Lindsey Wade; and his great-granddaughter, Emma.
    He will be remembered as a man who loved deeply—his family, his friends, his land, and his community. His quiet strength, generous heart, and enduring presence will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.
    A graveside service will be held Friday, May 9 at the Valley Cemetery at 11 a.m. A memorial luncheon to follow at the Drummond Fire Station. All are welcome to join in honoring Jay’s life.