Margaret Mae Brandt, 93

On Aug. 21, 2025, Margaret Mae Brandt was called home to heaven. Mom had health issues for several years, but she fought each setback, and we were blessed to have her continue to love and guide us through life. Her children were able to care for her at home and that gave us time for more memories.

She was born in Henley, Missouri on Sept. 22, 1931, to Frank and Hazel Miller. She was raised on the family farm with her brother, Claude and sisters, Billie, Dorothy, Doris, Wanda, Betty and Pat. She had great tales of her mischievous antics on the farm and always made us laugh.

Mom worked with her best friend, Florece Brandt at Woolworth’s, and they arranged a double date with each other’s brothers. Leo Brandt was the blind date, and they were married May 7, 1949. They were fortunate to have each other for 74 years and raise nine children.

She worked various jobs from Woolworth’s soda fountain, factory work, waitressing, social worker for Salvation Army, but most importantly, the best mother ever! Mom and Dad always were helping others, and they were foster parents for many years. I guess nine kids wasn't enough!

Mom and Dad’s family tree consisted of Donna Spencer, Sammy Brandt, Ronnie (Kathy) Brandt, Debbie (Ron) Kraus, Theresa (Boot) Eickert, Carla Brandt, Randy (Thelma) Brandt, Barbie (Jerry) Lipp, Patsy Stinger (Kevin), grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren. There was always someone extra showing up at our dinner table and no one ever went away hungry! Mom was indeed a fabulous cook!

Mom and Dad enjoyed car trips, camping at Tally Lake, the occasional trips to Jackpot, picnics and being with family. Holidays were always celebrated, and everyone appreciated the importance of getting together to celebrate as a family.

Mom was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Hazel Miller; husband, Leo; son, Sammy; son-in-law, Jerry Lipp; siblings, Claude Miller, Billie Schraffrin, Dorothy Turpin, Doris Baron, Wanda Smith, Betty Miller and Pat Bungart.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Aug. 29 at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home with final resting place at Glacier Memorial Gardens.

The family wishes to extend our appreciation to Chaplain Michelle Van Allen of Braveheart Ministry, Enhabit Hospice and First Responders. These individuals are all God’s angels helping us through difficult times. If you care to make a donation in Margaret’s honor, we suggest Braveheart Ministry as they help so many in need.

Mom, how do we say goodbye? You were always there to wipe away tears, give advice and encouragement, laughter, love, and just holding our hands when we needed strength. You were a blessing to us, and we are left with memories and broken hearts. Thank you for being our mom and best friend. Nightly phone calls will have to be done by prayer now. We love you to the moon and back forever and ever. Your wings were ready, but our hearts were not. 

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.