Obituary of Phillomene Stevens

May 7, 1953 - Eden Valley, Alberta

December 31, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Mâchochî Wîyâ

Mother Earth Woman

Phillomene Stevens, lovingly known as Mâkochî Wîyâ or Mother Earth Woman, was a beacon of resilience, wisdom, and service. Born in a tipi on the Gahna-Eden Valley Reserve, AB, she moved to Mini Thni, AB, at the age of six, cherishing her connection to the ancestral lands surrounding Chiniki Lake.

Guided by the teachings of Elders in her early years, Phillomene endured profound challenges including her time in a residential school from ages six to eighteen, which caused injuries that required years of recovery. Despite these hardships, she emerged as a leader committed to healing and cultural preservation, embodying the strength and wisdom passed down by her parents and community Elders.

Phillomene dedicated her life to uplifting others, serving as a cultural ambassador by sharing the vast knowledge of the Iyethka language, traditional practices, and ceremonies she learned from her parents. A mentor to countless students, she inspired and educated youth across the Rocky View Schools, Calgary Catholic School Division, Stoney Education Authority, and Canadian Rockies Public Schools. Her storytelling and teachings instilled pride and understanding in the hearts of all who learned from her.

Her service extended beyond education, as a Bow Valley Singer, a cook at Nakoda Lodge, a contributor to the Stoney Language Dictionary, and a certified crisis counsellor. Phillomene’s commitment to her community was unwavering. She worked with the Eagle’s Nest family shelter, the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, and served as Bearspaw Community Chief, embodying her role as a protector and advocate for her people.

Phillomene’s influence was felt widely, from supporting the McDougall United Church to collaborating with the Town of Canmore, the Town of Banff, the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, and the Whyte Museum. Her tireless efforts to share traditional teachings bridged cultures and fostered understanding.

Phillomene’s legacy is one of love, empowerment, and community. She was an advocate for education, a champion for cultural preservation, and a guiding light for those who had the privilege to know her. She leaves behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family, her community, and all who carry her teachings forward.

Wake Services will be held at the residence of the late Phillomene Stevens (Mînî Thnî, AB) on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at Old Gymnasium (Mînî Thnî, AB) on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Bearspaw Cemetery (Mînî Thnî, AB). A Traditional Feast will follow at the Old Gymnasium (Mînî Thnî, AB).

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Phillomene’s family here.

In living memory of Mâchochî Wîyâ (Phillomene) Stevens, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Cochrane, 369 Railway Street, Cochrane, AB T4C 2E2, Telephone: 403-932-4740.

Click Here to View the Memorial Card for Mâkochî Wîyâ (Phillomene) Stevens