Barbara Lee Clothier

Barbara Lee Clothier, 79, died Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at the Thermopolis Rehabilitation and Wellness after a long struggle with MS.

Born August 26, 1943, in Great Falls, Mont., she was one of four children of Ralph and Ruth (Wilberg) Brekke. Graduating from Chinook High School she attended Northern Montana College and graduated with a BA Degree from Colorado State University in 1976. A teacher for life, she taught in Rawlins, Wyo., Anaconda, Mont., Hamilton, Mont., and Tohatchi, N.M., where she received the professional award of Reading Certification. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1991 she continued to teach until 2005 in New Mexico.

On February 14, 1978 Barbara married Rex James Clothier in Hamilton, Mont. The couple moved to Thermopolis, Wyo., in 2005 where Barbara continued teaching for five years as a substitute for the Hot Springs County School District.

A true horsewoman, she owned horses and especially enjoyed riding "Drifter" for many years. She was an avid reader and was a supporter of Friends of the Library in Thermopolis.  She was a member of the National Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers and in Thermopolis, a member of Community Federated Church.

Survivors include her husband, Rex, of 45 years; son, Ted Clothier of Thermopolis; twin step-daughters, Cathy Bryant of Clovis, N.M. and Cindy Baker of Alliance, Neb., and step-daughter, Susan Martinez of Gering, Neb .; brother, Robert Brekke of Olney, Md .; sister, Virginia Solberg of Malta, Mont; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, John Brekke.

A Celebration of her life is pending. Memorials may be made to H.S. County Library, PO Box 951, Thermopolis, 82443.

Mortimore Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.  Messages may be offered at http://www.mortfh.com.