Shay J. Vernes

Shay J. Vernes went to her heavenly home on July 13, 2024, at St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Billings, Montana, surrounded by her loved ones, after courageously battling colon cancer for three years. She was 53. Born on Sept. 15, 1970, in Wolf Point, Montana, to Larry E. Grimsrud and Sharon L. (Sugden) Grimsrud, Shay was the youngest of seven siblings and often referred to as the family favorite.

In 1982, Shay moved to Haxby Point with her parents and brother Kurt, where she attended Cat Creek Country School until the eighth grade. She then attended Garfield County High School in Jordan, living in the dormitory until graduation. After graduating, she moved to Billings with her friend Angie, where they created lasting memories together. Beginning in 1992, Shay spent the rest of the ’90s and early 2000s working as a Lead Parts Specialist at Sears, where she met the love of her life, Brad. In 1994, they welcomed their daughter, Jordan, and were married on May 20, 1995, in Wolf Point. In 1997, they welcomed their son, Kaleb. Shay was born to be a mother; caretaking came naturally to her. In February 2008, she began working at Billings Clinic as a Unit Clerk in the ICU. While there, she also worked in the NICU and Supply Chain, making many friends along the way. Billings Clinic always felt like home to her. Shay also worked with her sister-in-law Kristen at her painting business as well. There was never anything Shay couldn’t do or conquer; her determination, strength and courage will live on forever.

Our family has lost a bright and shining light: our beautiful soul, Shay. She loved and nurtured her family profoundly, adored by all of her siblings, many nieces, nephews and cherished friends. Shay was Nana to Rylee and Mackenzie, whom she thought the world of. She was and will forever be an animal lover; her pets held a special place in her heart. Shay will be deeply missed and remembered forever.

Shay is survived by her devoted husband, Brad Vernes; her daughter, Jordan Broste and her husband, Ryan; her son, Kaleb Vernes, and his partner, Brooke; and her mother, Sharon Grimsrud of Wolf Point. Shay also leaves behind her brothers, Craig Grimsrud (Jerri) of Wolf Point, and Kyle Grimsrud of Lewistown; as well her sisters, Kim Ferguson (Bruce) of Fort Peck, and Shauna Murnion (Fred) of Cohagen. sisters-in-law Kristen Grimsrud of Huntley and Jackie Grimsrud of Roy, brother and sister-in-law Bob and Anita Johnson of Colorado Springs; along with many nieces, nephews and friends. She is preceded in death by her father, Larry Grimsrud; her brothers, Chris and Kurt Grimsrud; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Buddy and Polly Vernes; and her brother-in-law, Rick Vernes.

Shay’s life was marked by resilience, love and dedication to her family and friends. She will be missed by everyone around her. Until we meet again.

A memorial service for Shay will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, July, 27, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary in Billings. Following the service, a celebration of life for Shay will be held at Highlands Golf Club in Billings.