FIRST RIDER, Mary

Mary First Rider – Naatoihpii’aakii (Holy Dancing Woman) It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our loving matriarch, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother in the early hours of March 18, 2026, Naatoihpii’aakii started her journey to Omahksspatsiko (The Sand Hills) surrounded by her children and loved ones, at the age of 97. It is believed that Naatoihpii’aakii was actually 5 years older than the baptismal record.
Naatoihpii’aakii is survived by her sister Nora, her brother Ervin, sister-in-law Joyce. Her daughter-in-law Laverne, children, Blair (Kathy), Pam (Lucius- predeceased), Wanda (Scotty), Carrie (Phillip) and the grandchildren she raised Lydia, Saige, Ellie (Tyson), Chayse (Sharen) numerous other grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
Naatoihpii’aakiii was born on February 9, 1929 in Dog Childs Camp near the Niipoi’tssko (30 Trees) to Matoomahkitopi George and Isstoikamosaakii Jane First Rider, Naatoihpii’aakiii was traditionally raised by her grandparents Imiitaokosii Dog Child and Iitsiitsowaakii Only Handsome Woman.
Naatoihpii’aakiii was raised on the Blood Reserve as a traditional Iiniipooka, nurtured by her grandparents. Through them, she lived and learned our traditional way of life – one that, like many Blackfoot (Blood) people of her time, was practiced daily and deeply rooted in the living expression of the culture and identity.
As she continued her life, she respected other traditional ways such as the piercing sundance and lodges as her versatility enabled her to practice other ways of spirituality while maintaining her grandparents’ Blackfoot beliefs, values and teachings.
Naatoihpii’aakiii was sought after by numerous ceremonialists who travelled great distances to obtain the knowledge she was given after fasting at many sacred landmarks. She continuously stressed to her family to respect all forms of prayer and emphasized that respect be shown at all times.
Naatoihpii-aakiii carried a quiet strength in her work, taking deep pride in all she did. From renovating houses and building fences to plowing land, she shaped the world around her with her own hands. Her home and yard was a reflection of that care – warm, welcoming, and kept spotless through her cooking, cleaning and sewing. It was never about perfection, but about heart, effort, and resilience. These enduring qualities became her legacy, passed down through her family. Her home was a place of constant welcome – a gathering space where everyone came to visit, share meals, rest, and reconnect. It was also where we returned often, checking in to keep her close to our lives and to let her know where we were and what we were doing.
Naatoihpii’aakiii was a resilient woman whose strength and advocacy left a lasting mark on her people. A passionate defender of Indigenous rights, she stood firmly within the early movements that shaped the path forward for future generations. Her commitment only deepened through her work as an Elder in the community, where she helped guide and uplift others with wisdom and care.
She played a vital role in the development of Kainaiyssini, the Elders’ Declaration, and served as one of many advisors on the Blackfoot dictionary, working alongside linguists to preserve and honor the language. She was also part of the original Kainai Peacemaking Program, contributing to the restoration of balance and traditional ways of resolving conflict.
In her role as a Community Health Representative for the Blood Tribe Elders, she devoted herself fully – organizing events, leading programs, coordinating trips, and ensuring that food and clothing reached those in need. She gave countless, tireless hours in service to her people, always working to create opportunities and meet the basic needs of the community.
Her life was one of unwavering dedication, compassion, and strength – a legacy that continues.
Naatoihpii’aakiii had many relatives including, the family of Katie Wells, the family of Mary Standing Alone, Hind Bulls, Stripped Wolf, Weasel Moccassin, Mistaken Chief, Chief Body, Mountain Chief, Medicine Shield, Eagle Tail Feathers and other family members from Kainai, Siksika, Aamskapii Piikani; too numerous to include.
She was predeceased by her parents George and Jane First Rider, her grandparents, her siblings – Herbert (Elsie), Clive (Pearline), Edward, Randolph, Jocelyn, Meridian (Ray), Rosabelle (Kenneth), Margaret, her children – Rodney, Esther, grandchildren Blaine, Mamie, Sylvester, Rodney (Bubbles), great grandchildren – Willow Rose, Adrian John, Baby Beebe.
Grandma Mary will be sadly missed and forever loved and remembered. The wake service will be held at the Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Monday, March 23, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. and the Funeral Service will also be held at the Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. with the interment at the First Rider Gravesite. A feast will follow at the Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve. The family would like to acknowledge the staff at Kainai Continuing Care for the loving care she received while she was a resident.
To send a condolence please visit www.legacyfuneralhome.ca