Elizabeth Lacey

Elizabeth “Dayle” Lacey, 74 years young, passed away on Friday May 8th, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Though her passing was unexpected, she spent her final moments exactly where she always belonged, in the hearts and presence of the people she loved most. The loss of our Dayle leaves an immeasurable space that can never truly be filled.

In Heaven, she is free of pain and wrapped in peace. Still sharing the warmth that made everyone feel so welcome. Still offering the kindness that came so naturally to her. Still loving her family and friends in the quiet, steady way she always did throughout her life.

Dayle was born February 6, 1952, in Great Falls, Montana, to David and Rose Back. She was raised in Great Falls alongside her brothers and sisters and graduated from C.M. Russell High School.

Growing up in the same neighborhood, Dayle met the love of her life, Karl Lacey, at a young age. They were high school sweethearts whose young love grew into a long and meaningful partnership as they built a life together while living in Montana, Florida, and Wyoming before finally settling in Newcastle in 1982, where they raised their sons, John and Patrick.

Dayle was the very best kind of mother and grandmother; loving, dependable, selfless, and endlessly supportive. Her family was the center of her world, and her love was constant and unwavering. She gave wholeheartedly and found her purpose in caring for the people around her. Every child and grandchild who walked through her door felt safe, celebrated, supported, and deeply loved. Being together with the people she loved most brought her true joy. She cared for friends just as deeply as she cared for family, and many were fortunate enough to feel like both. She was everyone’s biggest cheerleader; always encouraging, always proud, and always there to celebrate the people she loved in both their happiest and hardest moments.

For 32 years, Dayle worked at Deckers Market in Newcastle, where she became more than a familiar face to the community. She was someone people looked forward to seeing. She always had time for a conversation, a laugh, or a quick story, and no one ever walked away from her company without feeling a little brighter than before. Her smile was comforting, her humor effortless, and her kindness unforgettable.

Dayle treasured time spent with family and friends and stayed closely connected to the people she loved. She was always only a phone call away and had a gift for making people feel important. Whether asking about the little things, remembering meaningful details, or simply taking the time to listen, she made every conversation feel personal and heartfelt. She celebrated life’s moments both big and small, and her joyful spirit, gentle kindness, and gentle heart touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She loved camping and traveling with her family, soaking up sunshine at the beach, and tending to her flowers and garden with care. She rarely missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren and happily traveled near and far for their games, events, and milestones. Her grandchildren were among the greatest joys of her life. Her home was always open, filled with laughter, sleepovers, snacks, and stories that became treasured childhood memories. In the backyard, the grandchildren built forts, played for hours, and created the kind of memories only a grandma’s house can hold. To them, her home was magic, a place of comfort, fun, and unconditional love.

In recent years, one of her most treasured roles became being “Ma” to her great-granddaughter, Finnlee. She spoke of her often and counted down the days she got to care for her. Watching another generation grow brought Dayle immense happiness and pride.

Dayle was preceded in death by her parents, David and Rose Back; her brothers, Russel Back, Eddie Back; her sisters, Martha Diacon, Anita Bickle, Barbara Hofland; along with many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who surely welcomed her home.

She is survived by her loving husband and soulmate, Karl Lacey of Newcastle, Wyoming; her sons, John (Sarah) Lacey of Gillette, Wyoming, and Patrick (Christa) Lacey of Newcastle, Wyoming; her grandchildren, Madi (Dan) Garcia of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Jake (Carly Bachelor) Lacey of Omaha Nebraska, Bailey (Jerry) Whitney of Newcastle, Wyoming, Lauren (Parker Seeley) Lacey of Sundance, Wyoming, Abbey (Kevin Nemmers) Lacey of Bancroft, Iowa, and Maggie Lacey of Newcastle, Wyoming; her cherished great-granddaughter Finnlee Whitney; and her sister, Davene (Rodger) Wright of Newcastle, Wyoming; and many nieces and nephews.

Our Dayle was the heart of her family; steady, loving, thoughtful, and endlessly giving. She taught us how to care deeply, laugh often, and show up for the people we love. Though she is no longer beside us, her voice, her warmth, and the love she poured into all of us will remain forever woven into our lives.

Dayle will be laid to rest in Great Falls, Montana. Services will be held in both Newcastle and Great Falls, with details to be announced.

Until we meet again, our sweet Dayle.

“Love you, bye-bye"