Billie Eugene Williams

Bill/Dad/Papa was born in Spiro, Oklahoma, the only child of Marion and Ella Williams. He was raised in Checotah, where he graduated from high school in 1952. His undergraduate studies at the University of Oklahoma were interrupted by three years of military service as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. He returned to Tahlequah, Oklahoma and completed his degree in Chemistry in 1958 with G.I. Bill assistance, and eventually earned graduate degrees in Mathematics, Biochemistry and Psychology. Professionally, he opened both Foothill and Highland High Schools in Bakersfield, California, held concurrent appointments at the Bakersfield Adult School, and ultimately moved to Bakersfield College where he was Divisional Dean of Math and Computer Science as well as Director of Handicapped Services. He is survived by his soul mate and wife of 54 years, Jessie Parker Williams of Bakersfield, daughter Karen Biestman and son-in-law Mark Biestman of Diablo, and his proudest legacy, two grandsons, Ross and Jeff. One daughter, Lynn, predeceased him. At his request, there will be no service. In his honor this holiday season, share a tall tale with good friends, and hold your loved ones a little closer.