DeeAnn was the first child born to Don and Lois DeFord on November 2, 1955 at Saint Vincent's Hospital in Billings, MT. She passed away on March 1, 2025 at St. Peter's Hospital in Helena, MT with her son and daughter-in-law at her side.

When she was five years old, DeeAnn and her family moved to Helena, MT. There, she and her three closely-aged siblings along with their parents spent a great deal of time outdoors, enjoying camping, fishing, swimming, hiking and family drives. DeeAnn attended May Butler Elementary School, Central Elementary School, Helena Junior High School, and graduated from Helena High School as a member of the Honor Society in 1972. DeeAnn played wind instruments in the school bands and was a young member of the Helena Symphony. A highly-skilled knitter, she created many projects for family and friends. She was intelligent and hard-working throughout her life. In later years, she settled into and enjoyed the challenges of ranch life in Wyoming. DeeAnn was kind to all, particularly enjoying young children, who were especially drawn to her. She cherished her time with her children and grandchildren.

DeeAnn was preceded in death by her mother, Lois DeFord, and father, Don DeFord. She is survived by her daughter Erin (Matt) Tunstall, (Emily and Felicity), and son, Regan (Sharayah) Clancy, (Elinor, Finian, Dolan), Her siblings, Byron (Claudia) DeFord, Lisa (Larry) Murphy, and Michelle (Jim) Mitchell. She will be greatly missed by all her family, including nephews, nieces, an aunt and uncle, and many cousins. She will also be missed and remembered by her childhood and lifelong friend, Sally (Kranich) Neal.

An open house celebration of DeeAnn's life will be hosted by her son and daughter on March, 16, 2025 at 1726 Lockey St, Helena, MT from 1:00 – 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Lung Association or the Lewis & Clark Library in Helena, MT.