Gwendolyn Kay Fornall-Grayson

In Loving Memory of Gwendolyn Kay Fornall-Grayson
March 30, 1954 – July 25, 2025
Gwendolyn Kay Fornall-Grayson passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the age of 71 after a brave and gracious battle with cancer. She was the most devoted wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman and beloved member of the Eureka and Rexford communities. Her absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but her legacy will live on in stories and memories she created with everyone around her. She was known for her fierce love, unwavering generosity, and one-of-a-kind sense of humor, Gwen touched countless lives with her unconditional heart, spirited laughter and deep commitment to family and community. 
Born in Carlsbad, New Mexico, on March 30, 1954, Gwen was the beloved daughter of Charlotte Fay Dahl-Fornall and Donald John Fornall. She had a sharp mind, she graduated Salutatorian of her class from Browning High School in 1972 and later attended the University of Montana.
Gwen was a loving and proud mother to Stephanie Dawn (Chad Utter), Charli Donnelle (Justin Chapman), and Jonni Donnette (Rob Paulk). She also lovingly adopted Dawn Rae. On August 4, 1987, she married her best friend and life partner, Terry Michael Grayson. Together, they had two more children, Grady Roy (Carli Allen) and Jayci Jo (Lucas Dalrymple). As a family, they built a beautiful life full of laughter, hard work, mutual devotion and proudly cheered for their favorite teams — the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.
Throughout her life, Gwen was the heart of her community. She owned and operated the Stockman’s Bar in Eureka and the Frontier Bar in Rexford, where she welcomed everyone with warmth, wit and the occasional strong opinion. Her generosity was legendary— from donating meals, toys and to supporting local families, she did so frequently, quietly and without hesitation. She had a special place in her heart for Big Hearts and Open Arms, Inc. and proudly supported Eureka Athletics. 
Her famously bold nickname — “Gwench the Chicken Bitch” — was earned with affection and humor, reflecting the many chicken dinners she donated to community causes and the fierce way she showed up for those in need. Behind that crass charm was a heart that would do anything for anyone.
Those who knew Gwen will always remember her incredible storytelling, wicked sense of humor and late-night conversations that lasted until the sun came up. She had a magical ability to whip up a prize-winning Halloween costume in minutes and a closet full of treasures that could outfit a whole town in fun and creativity. Gwen’s home was a place of laughter, light and acceptance— a space where no one felt like a stranger.
Above all, Gwen adored her family. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to 18+ grandchildren: Alicia, Alaina (Bobby Cook), Charlaine (Jake Barth), Terrin (Trevor Blank), Donovan, Riley, Cooper, Cayli, Camryn, Brody, Griffin, Ryder, Wrigley, Rayce, Revvyn, Rhenley, and Deacon. Her great-grandson, Jax, was one of her greatest joys— with another great-grandchild expected this September. Her love for her grandchildren was deep, loud and never-ending. She celebrated each of them for exactly who they are.
A celebration of Gwen’s life will be held on August 3, 2025, at 1:00 pm at the Riverstone Lodge in Eureka, Montana. All who knew and loved her are welcome to join in honoring her life — with laughter, love, and a story or two (or ten).
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Big Hearts and Open Arms, Inc. a cause that meant the world to Gwen and continues her legacy of compassion.
Gwen was the soul of her family, a beacon in her community and a light in so many lives. Though she may be gone, the laughter, love and fierce spirit she shared will live on in all of us— always.
Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Eureka, MT. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.