Jacqueline Ann “Jax” Gilder (Robertson)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Jacqueline Ann “Jax” Gilder (Robertson) went to be with her Lord and Savior on her birthday - April 21, 2025, at the age of 61 in Tioga, North Dakota.

Jackie was born on April 21, 1964, in Racine, Wisconsin, to Julius and Sally Robertson. They moved to Libby, Montana in 1968, where Jackie grew up with her parents and  siblings, creating cherished memories that would shape her remarkable journey. She graduated from Libby High School in 1982.

Jackie enjoyed fishing and being outdoors, however, one of her greatest passions was spending time with family and friends. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. When she came to Libby for a visit you could count on her to show up on your doorstep to say hello and hug your neck, if only for a few minutes, before she headed back to North Dakota.

She loved cooking, canning and freeze-drying just about anything she could get her hands on, and she was happiest when Joe was in the kitchen by her side helping. What she could not grow she would buy or barter for. Her goal was to have enough supplies and food on hand so if there was ever a disaster in her area she would be prepared to feed and help as many people as possible. 

When she wasn't caring for people, she spent her time caring for animals and was active in the local rescue in Tioga, North Dakota where she and Joe rescued several dogs and cats giving them a loving forever home making them as much a part of her family as her human children.

Perhaps more than anything, it was Jackie's strength that will leave a lasting impression. Through all the challenges that life threw at her, she started each day with a smile and never let on how much it took just to get through each and every day.

Jackie was preceded in death by her father (Julius Robertson), and her brother (Rick Robertson). 

Jackie is survived by her husband, Joe Gilder; her children, Dezirae Fletcher (Zayden and Zyrae) and Vanessa Fletcher; her mother (Sally Robertson); and siblings Debbie Hendrickson (Chuck Landkammer), Sandy Hosea (Bob), Dale Robertson and Anne Edwards (Bruce).

Per Jackie’s request, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, her and Joe’s wish is that you give and get extra hugs from your loved ones.

We will miss Jackie deeply, but we find solace in knowing that she is now at peace and no longer in any pain. 

Rest in peace, dear Jackie. You will be forever missed and never forgotten.