Kristi Jo Gardner

Kristi Jo Gardner, 51, passed away in Billings on Nov. 16, 2017, after a fiercely fought bout with cancer.

Kristi was born in Seattle on June 27, 1966, to Bob and Sharan Gardner, and was later joined by brother J.D. prior to the family moving to Billings. Upon graduating from West High School, Kristi pursued her love of art by earning a photography degree from Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming, having won acclaim as a student at various national art shows. Wanderlust took her back to Seattle, where she began her career as an event photographer and further honed her craft working for several prominent companies and magazines. Kristi eventually returned to Billings, where she achieved certification as a licensed massage therapist, forging a loyal clientele, as well as countless enduring friendships. Her trademark fearlessness lead to the opening of her own wellness and energy therapy business, Affinity for Healing, which she operated until her passing, despite the challenges of her illness.

Kristi balanced her business by nourishing her creativity with all things art: pottery, painting, sewing, crafting, and a continued appreciation for photography. She also placed great priority on her friendships, infusing them with precious time, loyalty, colorful humor and immeasurable love. Kristi encountered many hurdles in her time, but she faced each with an uncommon faith, conviction and fortitude.

Kristi will be joyfully remembered as the embodiment of courage, grace and whimsy, with a riotous, magnetic laugh that permeated anyone in her presence.

Kristi is survived by her brother J.D. of Billings, many treasured friends, and a handful of soul sisters she considered family. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 25, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave., with interment of cremated remains to follow in Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park.

Sincerest appreciation goes to Kristi's devoted caretakers during her last days: Cathy Higgins, Sonja Hauser, Jan Ragar, Shirley Brown, Patti Jo Johnston, Stacey Burgin, Marty Urion, Valerie Speery, Lisa Walter, Dawn Tadday, Blaze Tadday, Kiera Tadday and Compassus Hospice staff.

Anyone wishing to make a donation in Kristi's memory may do so to Compassus Hospice, 2110 Overland Ave., Suite 111, Billings, MT 59102.

Fly high, our dearest angel! You will be eternally missed and loved.