James Arthur Beattie

James Arthur Beattie was born May 22, 1956, in Great Falls, MT to Alexander and Viola Tweed Beattie. He was raised in Great Falls with his siblings, John, Janelle, and Robert. He attended Great Falls High School, finishing his education with his GED in 1976. He worked many jobs locally, most notably driving for Don Hall Transportation, as a bus driver for Great Falls Public Schools for 10 years. His first marriage was in 1975 and they lived in Quincy, Illinois with their son, Lee A. Beattie. Their marriage dissolved in May of 1979. James then returned to Great Falls. He later remarried Christina “Wilson” Beattie in December of 1980. Christina and James were married for 18yrs. They lived and raised their family in the Great Falls area. James loved to fish, listen to music, and spend time with his children and grandchildren. During his lifetime he battled many health adversities, battling throat cancer twice. His health never stopped him from surviving for his family. His loving spirit and pride of being Scottish is the legacy he leaves his family. Survivors include his son, Lee A. Beattie and his wife, Leah; daughters, Sherri Ahenakew and ex-husband, James Tetzlaff and Amanda Beattie Fry and husband, William; twelve grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. All reside in Great Falls and the Helena Area. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Alexander and Viola Beattie; brother, John; and son, James F. Beattie. The family will hold a celebration of life at a date and time to be announced.