Longtime Great Falls broadcaster Norma Ashby attended the funeral service for Gov. Tim Babcock (R-MT), and gives us this report.
by Norma Ashby
Gov. Tim Babcock’s Memorial Service, Sat. Morning at 11 a.m., April 11, 2015 at First Assembly of God Church in Helena, Mt.
Public officials, family and friends gathered Saturday morning, April 11, at First Assembly of God Church in Helena to celebrate the life of former Governor. Tim Babcock , who died April 7 at the age of 95 in Helena.
Presbyterian minister Rev. Jim Fiedler conducted the service.
Former Governor Marc Racicot, a lifelong friend of Babcock, gave the eulogy. These were among the remarks he said about the Governor:
“He lived an extraordinary and exceptional life.
He was a humble man, never forgetting where he came from.
He was thoughtful of others, loyal to his friends and family.
He was always patient and kind with me.
He never presumed that he should offer advice unless he was asked.
He never cursed. That’s why he was a gentleman.
We will not see his likes again.
God bless Tim and Betty and their family.”
Besides Racicot, other dignitaries at the service were:
Gov. Steve Bullock
Sen. Steve Daines
Atty. Gen. Tim Fox
Sec. of State Linda McCullough
Supreme Court Justice Jim Rice
Brad Johnson, Public Service Commissioner
Former Sen. Conrad Burns
Former Cong. Ron Marlenee
Former Gov. Stan Stephens
Former Sec. of State Bob Brown
And numerous current and former legislators
More than 60 relatives of Babcock were also in attendance.
He was buried with military honors in Forestvale Cemetery in the Helena Valley.
A large granite stone with Babcock on it in the shape of the State of Montana marks the burial site. There are two stones in front if it. One says, Tim, Governor. The other says, Betty, First Lady. She died in 2013.
The couple, who served as a remarkable team, were married 72 years.