Jackie Raye Kant

Obituary

Jackie (Welch) Budris Kant

April 8, 1953 – May 25, 2025

Jackie Raye Kant, 72, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at Hot Springs Health in Thermopolis, Wyoming.

She was born April 8, 1953, in Casper, Wyoming, to Thomas Dietymus and Rhoda Mae (Fraley) Welch. In her younger years, Jackie worked for the famed Western author Louis L'Amour, helping bale hay—just one example of her hard work and adventurous spirit.

Jackie moved to Michigan in 1987, where she embraced her most cherished role as a stay-at-home mom. While raising her son, she also worked part-time cleaning houses. She remained in Michigan until 2009, when she returned to her home state of Wyoming to marry the love of her life, Michael Kant.

Jackie had a deep love for animals—especially horses—and shared a special bond with her pets. Her cat, Tinkerbell, transformed from a scrappy barn kitten into the pampered queen of Jackie's apartment. Her dogs, Zoey and Muffy, were loyal companions who never left her side.

Jackie was a generous and giving soul who dedicated time to volunteering at the Douglas Humane Society and the Helping Hands Thrift Store. A woman of strong faith, she was an active member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association and attended The Gathering Place for worship and fellowship. She also loved gardening—whether it was planting vegetables in her raised garden beds or nurturing flowers and houseplants indoors.

Jackie was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Anita Kay Johnston and Linda Lee Walter.

She is survived by her son, Cody Budris of Douglas; her sister, Patricia Weber of Jackson; and many friends and loved ones who will miss her dearly.

A Celebration of life will be held 3:00 PM, June 28, 2025 at the Gathering Place in Douglas, Wyoming with Pastor Sara Phillippi officiating. Online condolences may be shared at www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.