Billie Munnerlyn

Born ninety-seven years ago on a rural, working plantation, young Billie thrived in a world of close family and community, especially enjoying her horses, her close friends and a life lived mostly outdoors.

Never one to be left behind, Billie, age 5, followed her older brother Charlie onto the school bus, began first grade, and opened a lifelong connection to, and love for, public schools. Always an outstanding student, she graduated with honors from high school and college. Declining a graduate fellowship in business at Tulane University, Billie returned home, teaching at schools in north Louisiana for the rest of her career.

Making a profession of faith at age 7, Billie was a committed Southern Baptist, joyfully serving in any capacity where there was a need. Ultimately, this dedication to service led her to work as an assistant to her husband, Mike, when he became manager of a newly created Baptist encampment.

After retiring from camp, Billie led a fulfilled, busy life as a hospital Pink Lady, and as a Sunday School teacher and participant in the senior choir at  First Baptist Church, where she was a member. Following Mike’s death, she faithfully helped his entire family care for Mike’s mother, who lived to be 101 years old.

One of Billie’s favorite songs tells us that “Life is like a mountain railroad, with an engineer that’s brave. We must make the run successful, from the cradle to the grave.” On a late spring afternoon, with the guidance of that loving engineer, Billie completed her successful run, and she now rests in well-deserved peace.

Billie is survived by a daughter and son-in-law and two grandchildren.

The family thanks the doctors, nurses and staff of Vivian Healthcare center, North Caddo Medical Center, and Bristol Hospice for their care of Billie in her final years and days. Jim and Cindy and members of the FBC “away” team, we are grateful for your many meaningful visits to Billie as friends and representatives of the church. Sally and Lanora, your ministrations and friendship were of vital importance to Billie. You simply made her happy. We thank you both.

Burial will be private in Vivian, Louisiana.