She was preceded in death by her parents Andrew and Mildred Lancon, sister Judy Heathcock, husband Bill Thompson, and grandson Geoff Stephens.
Billie was born in Houston, Texas March 2,1933 and raised in Galena Park. While attending Galena Park High School, she was involved in band and theatre. Upon graduation, from high school, Billie attended Sam Houston State University where she met a blonde curly headed football player by the name of Bill Thompson. The story goes a beautiful brunette flautist caught his eye. He later called her that evening to go out for a Coke. Initially, she turned him down saying "I have to wash my hair"! She changed her mind and the rest, as they say, is history, with a marriage that lasted over 60 years!
The wedding took place in Galena Park on September 30, 1952. The president of the college, Dr. Lowman, and almost the entire football team attended the wedding.
While a student at Sam Houston, Billie was a contestant in a beauty contest at the Shamrock Hilton in Houston.
Their coaching career took them to Hallettsville, Livingston, Vidor, and finally Baytown. Between moves and three babies, Billie continued her pursuit to obtain her degree. She not only completed her bachelors, but she also earned her master's. She retired from her dream job as theatre arts director at Sterling High School. However, she continued her passion for theatre by writing and directing various productions.
Billie was active in Delta Kappa Gamma where she was presented the Epsilon Psi 2012 Achievement Award, was vice-president of the Houston Area Coaches Wives Association, and a member of Memorial Baptist Church for more than 60 years! Our parents knew this church was the one for our family. We all have so many wonderful and cherished memories of the people here that helped us grow in our Christian faith.
Unofficial Thompson Motto: FAITH. FAMILY. FOOTBALL
Bill and Billie were known for their hospitality for so many occasions such as bridal showers, baby showers, parties for coaches and their families. One of Billie's greatest joys was having her family over for birthdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or "just because". We knew the door - and her heart - would always be open. Now heaven has opened its door for her.
Our family's heartfelt gratitude goes out to the wonderful people at The Waterford- Kayla, Sherma, Julie, Pam, Alex, Tony, Katie, Leslie, Melody, Sarah, and so many others. Special thanks go to Sharon Gordon - our mom's "personal hairdresser", Mary from Visiting Angels, and Ramona Sierra who "came with the house" and took wonderful care of that house.
Billie is survived by her children, Terrie Stephens (Mike), Vickie Hanson and Micky Thompson (Kim); grandchildren, Kyle Stephens, Morgan Christiansen (Kevin), Crockett Thompson (Becca), Kristy Ramirez (Justin), Grant Hanson and GraceAnne Hanson; great-grandchildren, Evelyn (Evie), Kyle Michael (KJ), Isis (Izzy), Logan, Bailey, Andi, Denton, Laken, Cannon, Witten, Layla, Gage, Bryce and Brody as well as our Robert E. Lee Gander Family.
A visitation for Billie will be held Monday, November 13, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Memorial Baptist Church, 600 W Sterling Ave, Baytown, Texas 77520, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.navarrefuneralhome.com for the Thompson family.
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