Frank Gerard Tomlin Lion Shows

Frank Gerard Tomlin Lion Shows, affectionately known as "Tommy" or "2Tone", left for other side camp on January 1, 2025. He was born June 17, 1984, in Crow Agency, MT. He was raised and loved by Thomas and Alice Lion Shows. Tommy received the Indian name Bilikuupe (Rainbow) from his aunt, Jeanette Lion Shows, after his grandfather, James Lion Shows. He was a member of the Ties the Bundle and a child of the Big Lodge Clan. Tommy's mother raised him in the First Crow Indian Baptist Church in Lodge Grass, and his father instilled in him the traditional way of life. Tommy was a strong Sundancer and was proud to see his daughter Nayola be a part of something he held close to his heart.

Tommy grew up in Owl Creek, nestled at the base of the Wolf Mountains. A dedicated student, he attended Wyola Elementary, where his mother, Alice, was a beloved teacher. He is remembered standing next to his mom throughout the school and classrooms. He later attended Lodge Grass School, where he distinguished himself in football and wrestling, ultimately earning his GED from Little Big Horn College.

Tommy worked in various capacities throughout his life, showcasing his diverse skills. His professional journey included roles in a sawmill in Ashland, roofing, landscaping, and wildland firefighting. Tommy was also excellent at carpentry.

Tommy was a collector of comic books and an X-Men fanatic. Growing up, you'd most often find Tommy "gaming" with his brother, Louie. Their favorite games were Guerilla Wars and Donkey Kong Country, and he was always the winner over his big brother. Tommy knew how much he meant to Louie, and their bond would forever be everlasting. One of Tommy's favorite things is hanging out with his dad and cruising all over town. Tommy had a laid-back demeanor but always seized the moment to tease and joke with his brothers. He also enjoyed being around his family and loved any chance he got to be with his children, whom he loved dearly. 

Tommy made numerous friends throughout his life. If you have crossed paths with him, you most likely befriended him and shared loving and unforgettable memories you will cherish forever.  

Tommy is preceded in death by his mother, Alice Lion Shows; uncles Mike and Chris Lion Shows, Walter, Cesyl, Collin Carl Young, Wendell, and Harry Dean Springfield; aunts Birdie and Jeanette Lion Shows, Carleta Wilson, Janice Goodluck, and Margaret Springfield; and brother Eyon Springfield. 

Surviving Tommy is his father, Thomas Lion Shows; his children Nayola, Frank "Bugz", K'lyn, Durell, Dreyah, Marty, Maurice, Tati, Gabrielle, and Noelia; brothers Louie (Emma) Lion Shows, William "Buck" (Darcy), Terrence, Robert R (Farrah), Avatar (Chelsea), Colton, Woodrow, and Nyjoel Springfield and Ashler Bear Crane; sisters Velma Springfield, Donna Old Elk, Garalyn, and Deanna Bear Crane. Special Cousins Michael Lee Rodriguez, Destiny, Robin and John Lion Shows, Emma (Ron) Rides Horse, Landon and Erika Old Chief and William W. Springfield Jr. Nieces/nephews De'shaun, Sae'lee, Leviah, James, Alice, Kingston, Austin, Isaiaha, Genesta, Isaac and many others whom he cherished; aunts Lanile Lion Shows, Beth (Earl Sr.) Springfield-Old Chief, Mary Springfield, Jolene Webb, Sara Young, Donna Yazzie, Denise Stops, and Renea Crooked Arm; uncles Russell Wallace, Woodrow (Gladys) Brien, Daniel and Dominic Old Elk, Blaine Bulltail, Joshua Springfield Sr., Francis Springfield Sr., and William "Willie" Springfield Sr. 

Extended families include Wallace, Bends, Yarlott, Young, Old Elk, Bulltail, Gardner, Leaders, Springfield, Bad Bear, Spotted Horse, Lincoln, Gunshows, Bell Rock, Holds the Enemy, Left Hand, Reed, and Whiteman Runs Him. Our family is large; if we missed you, please accept our apology in this difficult time.

The Lion Shows family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Delora Old Elk and the late Robert "Bugsy" Springfield Jr. for graciously giving us Tommy to raise as our own. We are deeply thankful for your love and trust, allowing us to cherish and nurture him within our family. 

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