Billie Vinee Cottle

In the early morning hours of May 15, 2023, Billie Vinee Arbuckle Cottle flew free from the bonds of earth to rest in peace with her savior, Jesus Christ, smiling down on us with her enchanting smile once again.

Billie Vinee Arbuckle was born in Holland, Texas on April 13, 1935, the daughter of Charlie and Bessie Arbuckle. A red-headed Texas girl, she was raised in Austin and graduated with honors from Austin High School. As the mysterious ways of love and chance collided, she met Airman Kenneth Cottle, a curly haired Columbia native, and sparks flew! Billie and Ken were united in marriage on July 21, 1955 and moved to Ken’s hometown of Columbia, Missouri, where they made their home for the rest of her life. They welcomed three beautiful sons over the years as they made a life together, loving family and friends and each other.

Billie V. was a beautiful, intelligent and caring individual who contributed her time and talents to her family, working for schools that her sons attended, and supporting and leading school organizations such as the PTA. After her sons were older, Billie earned an associate degree in psychology at Columbia College. She began working for Boone County Hospital in public relations and retired from her career there as assistant to the president and secretary for the board of directors. In retirement, she enjoyed spending time with family, traveling with Ken and friends, reading, movies, music, and playing cards. She loved God, and regularly attended Olivet Christian church.

Billie is survived by her husband Kenneth Nelson Cottle; two sons: Barry Laine (Susan) Cottle and Brice Patrick (Marcia) Cottle; daughter-in-law: Amelia Miner Cottle; six adored and cherished grandchildren: Chris Cottle, Blake Cottle (Sara), Halle Cottle, Taylor Cottle, William Cottle, Katherine Cottle; and one great grandson, Bennett Cottle.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her six siblings, and her first-born son Brian Nelson Cottle.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, May 20th, 2023, from 10 AM – 11 AM at Memorial Funeral Home. A private family burial will take place in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Greater Missouri Alzheimer’s Association – Columbia Walk, in care of the funeral home. Donations can be made at www.alz.org.