Roberta Jean Flying Big Knife, Feather Woman Wiyága Wiyá

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Roberta Jean Big Knife, who departed this life on May 7, 2026 at the age of 84. Roberta was a cherished wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, friend and prayer warrior. Roberta will be remembered for kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for children, family and friends. She began her role in Motherhood in 1960 and took in many children, grandchildren, nephews and nieces and raised them as her own. Born on August 18, 1941 in Lodgepole, MT to Irving and Dora Flying. She had four sisters and one surviving brother Duane Flying.

She attended school in Lodgepole and Flaundreau Indian Boarding School. She married Joe Big Knife December 15, 1959. To this union, she had Taylor, Shawn, Shelley, Charlene, Charlotte, Ace, Lanaya, Kyra and Jade. Roberta leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love for children and family. Never one to miss a birthday, or special event. She was very proud of her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nephews and nieces. She had a devoted love for Jesus Christ and served him through kindness. She never turned away the offer to pray for anyone. She was an avid guitar player and sang gospel songs with beauty and grace. She opened her home to anyone in need and was the most treasured Cook this side of Haystack! Meals were a way to bring everyone together.

Surviving are her children, brother, sister; Florence Helgeson daughter in laws Tami Big Knife, Jackie Blackbird, 22 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, Adopted sons Tuffy Helgeson, Wes Cochran, Brian "Kelly" Eagleman, Jack Nystrom and daughter Lacrissa St. Pierre.

Preceding her in death are her parents, sisters Myrna Cochran, Olivia Stump, Ilene Stiffarm and Margaret Piapot. Two granddaughters Sara Rachelle and Jennifer Big Knife. And her beloved husband Joe Big Knife.

Wake Services will begin Friday at 2pm, May 8th, 2026, at St Anthony's Catholic Church in Box Elder. Funeral service will be held on Saturday May 9, 2026, at St Anthony's Catholic Church in Box Elder at 11 a.m. Burial at Joe Big Knife family cemetery. Feast to follow. Paster Jackson Henry to officiate.