Billie Jo Straus

Billie Jo Pullen Straus, at age 90, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family July 12, 2023, to be with her Heavenly Father. Billie, born January 24th, 1933 to Cecil and Anna Pullen in Moscow, Texas, was an only child who was cherished and beloved by her parents. She was a member of the Red Hussar Drum and Bugle Corps at Thomas Jefferson High School from which she graduated in 1951. She then went on to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from the University of Texas at Austin in 1955. Next, Billie moved to Austin in 1960 and taught elementary school for thirty years in the Austin Independent School District. Billie spent the majority of her career teaching her favorite grade level, first grade.

Billie was a proud member of The University of Texas Ex’s and enjoyed going to the Alumni Center before and after football games. Billie was also a member of the University of Texas Ladies Club from 2001 to 2017. Lastly, Billie’s favorite club was the Austin Enchilada Club. For many years, Billie enjoyed spending time with close friends during the monthly gatherings at various Austin’s restaurants. Billie loved volunteering, first as a Candy Striper at St. David’s Hospital and then later, with her daughter, Holly, at Seton Hospital working with children. Billie loved to travel. She had several adventures in Europe, the Far East, Central America, and most of the fifty states.

Billie is survived by her husband of 17 years, Tom Straus, her daughter Anne Kuhlmann and husband Dean of Marble Falls, daughter Holly Hunsucker and husband Brett of Round Rock, and son John Hornsby and wife Tammy of Bridge City; and her six granddaughters Ashley, Brandi, Olivia, Riley, Blakely, and Payton.

Billie Straus was preceded in death by her mother and father, Anna and Cecil Pullen, her daughter Susan Hornsby, her first husband Hugh Hornsby, and her second husband Howard Hendrickson.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Billie's memory may be made to Alzheimer's Association-Capital of Texas Chapter, https://www.alz.org/texascapital?set=1.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wcfishnorth.com for the Straus family.