Margueritta "Mae" Christie, age 97, of Custer, SD, passed away January 9, 2017, at the Custer Regional Senior Care Center in Custer.

Mae was born April 14, 1919 to Godfried and Effie May (Downen) Spring on a small ranch east of the State Game Lodge in Custer County, SD. She was educated at a rural school near her home until Mae was nine, at which time the family moved to the present Springs Ranch, 2 ½ miles east of Custer, where she has since made her home. Mae received further education at the Custer grade and high school.

On September 14, 1940, Mae was united in marriage to William T. Christie of Chanute, KS. One son, Gary William, was born to this union. Mae loved taking drives in the beautiful Black Hills, being outdoors with nature, the wild birds and animals, as well as beautifying her yard with flowers and plants. However, a stroke in 2000 confined her to the indoors. Mae loved her family, friends and best pal, Fritzie, very much.

Mae is survived by her son, Gary William; granddaughter, Crystal; grandson, Cory; great grandson Elijah; as well as her many friends; and her precious dog, Fritzie.

Mae is preceded in death by her husband, William; grandson, David; parents; and brother, Kenneth Spring.

Private family services will be held at a later date.