Nellie Manuela Victoria, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at her home in Ballantine, Montana. She was born on May 3, 1931, in Joliet, Montana, to Donaciano Murillo and Maria De Jesus Palmerien Murillo.
Nellie grew up in a hardworking family alongside her siblings, learning early the value of determination and perseverance. She often shared stories of her younger days, laughing as she recalled being a “track star” who proudly brought home blue ribbons. Those stories became treasured family favorites, as Nellie had a gift for storytelling that could fill any room with laughter and warmth.
On August 5, 1950, Nellie married the love of her life, Michael Victoria, at St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Pompeys Pillar. Their marriage was built on deep faith, mutual respect, and humor, and together they raised four children.
Nellie worked tirelessly throughout her life. She managed several local restaurants in Billings and the surrounding area, including The Circle Inn, The Skyline, The Red Door, The Turf, and The Longbranch. Her strong will and passion for hospitality eventually led her to open her own restaurant, fulfilling a lifelong dream. In 1975, Nellie and her family opened The El Chaparral in Ballantine, a place that quickly became a community favorite. Over the years, they expanded to several locations in Billings and Worden, becoming local pioneers in introducing Mexican cuisine to the area. Whether at a restaurant or food fair, Nellie’s food brought people together, and her generous spirit made everyone feel like family.
Beyond her work, Nellie’s heart always belonged to her family and community. Those who knew her will remember a woman with a big personality, an even bigger heart, and a way of making everyone feel seen and cared for. She was outspoken, protective, and always ready with heartfelt advice mixed with love and humor. She often reminded her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to “remember the dos and the don’ts”—a phrase that will echo in their hearts forever.
Nellie loved tending to her flowers and animals, with her dogs acting as constant companions, and her home was always open to anyone in need of a warm meal or a listening ear. She enjoyed traveling, watching her favorite Westerns, and attending fiestas filled with Mexican music and dancing. A devout Catholic, she and her husband were lifelong members of St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, supporting several community organizations with their generosity. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family.
Nellie was preceded in death by her husband, Mike Victoria; her parents, Maria De Jesus Palmerien Murillo and Donaciano Murillo; her sisters, Carmen Federico, Lola (Jim) McIntosh, and Sally (Henry) Rodriguez; her brothers, Antonio and Eustacio; her daughter-in-law, Stacey Victoria; her son-in-law, Gary Horton; and her grandson, Aaron Horton.
She is survived by her children, Rachel Horton, Christina Victoria- Petty, Michael Victoria Jr., and Raymond Victoria, as well as her six grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, who will carry her spirit forward.
Many friends and family members were actively involved in making her life special, especially those who came to visit. We are profoundly grateful for that love. While we have tried to mention everyone, we apologize for any accidental oversights and thank all who held her dear.
The Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, at St. Bernard’s Parish, 226 Wicks Lane, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Huntley Project school lunch program, Help for Homeless Pets or Saint Cyril and Methodius Church.
Her life was a beautiful gift to us all, and we are so grateful for every moment we shared. You taught us strength, unconditional love, and the importance of family. Vaya con Dios, Grandma. We will always remember the “dos and the don’ts.”
