Alison 'Big Mama' Fuller Keene, 53

Born Aug. 31, 1960, Alison Fuller Keene passed away from a heart attack due to an enlarged heart at her residence on Feb. 23, 2014. She was 53.

Alison was born a spirited child to Robert and Barbara Fuller. Alison and her older brother, Michael Frank Fuller, were raised in Somers. Full of joy and life, she attended Flathead High School as a member of the class of 1978. After high school she spent several years in Texas and Oregon before returning home with her firstborn daughter in 1982. She spent the rest of her life in her beloved Flathead Valley.

She was the vice-president of the Flathead Valley Gay Alliance and was well known for her activism within the community. Due to her warm and caring nature, she became known as “Big Mama” to friends, family and coworkers alike. Many who met her remarked that she had become a second mother and even occasionally called her Mom.

She had a love of singing and performing, along with a passion for reading that she bestowed on all her children. She was happiest among people, listening to their stories and enriching their lives with her unending good nature.

Big Mama was preceded in death by her father, Robert W. Fuller; and best friend, Charles Lemming.

Her survivors include her mother, Barbara Tipton Fuller; brother, Michael Frank Fuller; daughters, Spring Clover Keene, Jen Hawkins, Beth Hawkins, Maria Conrad and Stormy Sky Fuller; and her grandson, Steven Conrad. Innumerable friends remain to keep her memory as full of life as she was.

A colorful potluck celebration of life will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. on March 22 at the Eagles Club in Kalispell, on the top floor. Come as you are.