J'nine Michelle Frost-Dittus

Sept. 12, 1965 – Jan. 29, 2023

It's been said the kitchen is the heart of the home. It's where loved ones gather, where we connect, where we celebrate holidays, and where we enjoyed J'nine's world-famous caramel rolls.

But we shouldn't give the kitchen too much credit. The kitchen isn't the heart of the home-that was J'nine Dittus.

J'nine Michelle Dittus was born Sept. 12, 1965, to Susan (Susie) and Lawren Frost (Frosty) in Glasgow, Mont. J'nine was the fifth child to join the Frost Clan, after Stuart, Jacquie, Danny and Billy. After J'nine, came Chee Chee. J'nine was adored by her siblings, having a unique bond with each of them.

Oct. 30, 1988, she became the proudest mom of Bradley Alan. J'nine's love multiplied as Ryan Adam, Jesse Edward and Hope Ann entered this world. J'nine was the definition of the perfect mom, effortlessly making time for each and every one of them to feel important and special. She showed up... for every event or accomplishment, no matter how big or small, she showed up. She was incredibly proud of her kids, and she made it known!

An exceptional cook, doting caregiver, loyal friend, sister, mother, and grandmother, J'nine left us too early, but jam-packed a lifetime of love, adventures, and memories into her 57 years on earth. With wisdom beyond her years and an unending supply of patience, J'nine understood the recipe for a happy life-surround yourself with loved ones, maintain a childlike spirit, make room for practical jokes, and approach every interaction with an open heart. Her children were lucky enough to experience a mother that they describe as an angel on earth. The love they had for each other was unconditional and unending, almost enviable from the outside looking in.

J'nine broke a few pie crusts along the way-but you'd never know it. Her steely resolve and mental toughness was admired by friends and family, many often wondering how she could maintain such grace amid the chaos and unimaginable heartbreak she endured throughout her life. Even as a child J'nine exhibited an exceptional work ethic, often putting in late hours at the family's campground, Trails West in Glasgow. The friendships J'nine formed as a child, endured the test of time. She had countless lifelong friends, always making it a point to maintain those connections.

Resolute yet tender, resilient yet compassionate, J'nine genuinely found joy in making others around her feel special.

Birthdays and holidays were a big deal at J'nine's house-and she has a lifetime of VHS tapes to prove it; she never missed recording and memorializing a cherished family event. As unique as her name's spelling, J'nine quite possibly missed her calling as a stage performer. You might find her dancing around the kitchen in her socks while singing into a spatula or chasing around the grandkids in a Halloween mask. It was always fun at Nana's house.

There's no doubt that J'nine's kids and grandkids were the main ingredients to her happiness. Early on, motocross and a dash of mischief often hallmarked their time together-always sealed and cured in laughter. Later as the grandchildren arrived the fun and love only increased. She was far from an average grandma, she was "Nana," a title she naturally excelled at. J'nine was a fierce protector of her family.

As a caregiver and daycare provider, J'nine treated every child as her own. She looked after countless children through the years and served as an extended mom to many. Accepting and inclusive, you knew you were welcome at J'nine's day or night, and there was always room at the table for just one more.

As our angel here on earth, we're still trying to understand why you were taken from us so soon. We are all better humans for knowing you. We'll take a cue from you and check in on each other, make sure everyone is fed, and the house is tidy, but please know your absence is palpable.

You were our rock, our joy, and our strength-the heart of our home and our community. We will miss you always and forever. The solace of light during this time is imaging the beautiful reunion you are having with your boys.

J'nine was preceded in death by her beloved sons Bradley and Ryan Dittus; mother Susan Frost; and father Lawren Frost.

J'nine will be greatly missed by her son, Jesse (Savanah) and only daughter, Hope (Kacey) Dittus; grandchildren Briley, Kinley, Paisley and Langston; brothers Stuart (Holly) Frost, Danny (Rosa) Frost, Bill (Stacy) Frost; sisters Jacquie (Joe) Cates and Chee Chee Frost; as well as many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A visitation was held on Friday, Feb. 3, with family receiving friends from 4 to 6 p.m., at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home. A memorial service was held at 1 p.m., on Saturday, Feb. 4, at Grace Bible Church in Miles City. A graveside service followed at the family lot of Custer County Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.stevensonandsons.com.