Clifford Arthur Mummey, Jr., born Mar. 24, 1940 in Harlem, Montana, passed away on Mar. 23, 2025 after a long fulfilling life, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work and family.
He was welcomed into this world in a home birth, delivered by his aunt Vern to parents Clifford Arthur Mummey, Sr. and Gladys Shupe. Affectionately nicknamed “Thummy” due to his tiny size at birth, the name stayed with him throughout his life.
The eldest of nine children, Thummy had an adventurous childhood, learning to hunt, fish and trap at an early age. Spending time at the Missouri Breaks was one of his fondest memories that he loved to share.
He proudly served his country in the US Army as a Private First Class E3 from 1961 to 1963. Upon returning home he met the love of his life, Gloria Klungland. Thummy’s love story with Gloria was one for the ages. They exchanged vows on Nov. 27, 1964, beginning a journey together that would span 60 wonderful years. Throughout life’s highs and lows, they remained each other’s rock. Their time together was a beautiful testament to what it means to share a lifetime with someone and the love they built will continue to shine through the family they created.
Thum and Gloria were blessed with two children, Jon and Lisa, who were the pride and joy of his life. He taught them the value of hard work, integrity and perseverance, shaping them into the people they are today. His wisdom, patience and sense of humor made him a mentor and best friend to many.
An avid outdoorsman, Thummy found true happiness sharing his knowledge and experiences with others. Teaching his children and grandchildren, especially his only grandson, how to hunt and fish will be some of the most cherished memories we hold.
He found his passion in the asphalt business, dedicating much of his career as a plant operator and roller operator, work that would take him and his family on many adventures across Montana and the surrounding states. As a member of the Local 400 Operators Union, he took a lot of pride in his work. Unfortunately, in 1989 a debilitating back injury forced him into retirement.
Later in life, he experienced an unexpected but meaningful reunion when he discovered and connected with a daughter, Colleen. Their relationship was brief but brought him great joy.
Thummy was preceded in death by his beloved sisters, Sara “Sally” Neer and Loretta “Letty” Williams. He is survived by his wife, Gloria; his siblings, Linda (Duane) Tangen, Wallace Mummey, Judy (Murl) Booth, Debby (Floyd) Webb, Rocky (Paula) Mummey and Mike (Marlene) Mummey; his children, Jon Mummey, Lisa (Rick) Clifton, Colleen Snyder; his five grandchildren, Cassandra Mummey, Bridget (Shawn) Eller, Nikkole Clifton, Sean (Alyssa) Mummey, Jadyn (Charlie) Ewart; and seven great grandchildren, Kourtney, Evangline, Jon, Harrison, Lucas, Connor and baby Ewart.
Thummy was a wonderful person, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Ol’PA, brother, uncle and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His strength, kindness and unwavering love for his family will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
Services were held Mar. 28, with burial with military honors at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison.
