Billie Jean married Ray Johnston on November 18, 1951. She was a wonderful wife, who cherished her husband and her life with Ray. He truly was the love of her life, and she never remarried after becoming a widow in November of 1993.
She and Ray had three beautiful daughters that were her world. She balanced her family and work beautifully, always giving of her time, love and energy to those around her, especially her children and her husband. If she was tired, she never showed it to others, going from work to home and all the places in between. Where Billie was, her daughters were nearby. She raised them to be strong and successful women, and she instilled in them a love for serving others and making others feel special.
Billie Jean (nanny) was also the true definition of a doting grandmother. She spent countless hours supporting her grandchildren and great grandchildren over the years. Regardless of the activity or event, she would be there to offer support and cheers. She truly was their biggest cheerleader, and we pitied the officials or umpires who made a bad call against one of her precious grandchildren/great grandchildren.
Billie Jean spent her life in service to others both at her home and her job. She served as a nurse for Dr. George Day at Family Medical Clinic in Harrogate for forty plus years. During her tenure there her gift and heart for serving others truly shined. She treated each of her patients with dignity, respect, and compassion always making them feel at ease in her presence.
Billie Jean had a talent for making those around her feel special. She celebrated all holidays and special events, big or small, in a way that made them truly unforgettable. Her family will cherish these memories for years to come. Aside from celebrating big, she really lived that way. She put her heart and soul into everything she did. She was an avid collector of many things over the years, and she loved to travel! She loved to have fun and was truly always on the go! If you ever asked her to go anywhere, you needed to be serious about it, because she stayed with her bags packed and ready!
Billie Jean had a strong faith and was a member of Old Yellow Creek Baptist Church throughout her life. She lived her life as a servant to her Lord and savior JESUS Christ, family, friends, and her community. Her love and light will never fade, as she left her lasting impact on this world.
Billie Jean was preceded in death by her parents Johnnie Pete Sr. and Nettie Mike. Husband Ray W. Johnston. Brother Johnnie Pete Jr. "Buddy" (Mary Francis) Mike. Daughters Lana Ellison and Ginger Beason. Brothers-in-law Edwin (Esther) Johnston, Frank (Ruth) Johnston, Glen (Marvel) Johnston, Wilburn (Vearl) Johnston, and Phil (Nancy) Johnston.
She is survived by her daughter Pamela (Roger) Vannoy. Grandchildren Jeananne Romines, Ralynne (Shane) Gent, Morgane (Chris) Watkins, and Whitney (Chad) Taylor. Great grandchildren Ben (Beth) Baker, Clayton Baker, Isaac Baker, Gideon Baker, Noah Gent, Rachel Gent, Sarah (Jonathan) Kidd, Jay Watkins, Bentley Watkins, and Corbin Watkins, Cameron Taylor, and Bryson Taylor. Sons-in-law Roger Beason and Clarence Ellison. Brother-in-law Jay Lynn (Joan) Johnston. Nephews John "Tony" (Kathern) Mike and Tim (Billie) Mike. Special friends Kathy & Jessie Smallwood and Barbara & Rev. Stewart Fultz. As well as a host of beloved family and friends.
The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Emory Ridge Memory Care Facility in Powell, TN. As well as Knoxville Amedysis Hospice. Everyone provided wonderful love and care to Billie Jean and the family is forever grateful.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Pat Summit Foundation for Alzheimer's. Donations may be made online at: https://etf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1552
or by mail to: The Pat Summitt Foundation 520 W. Summit Hill Drive, Suite 1101 Knoxville, TN 37902
A graveside service will be held Wednesday May 3, 2023 at 2 PM in Mountain View Cemetery and Memorial Gardens in Harrogate. The family welcomes anyone who would like to attend.
Minister: Rev. Stewart Fultz
Singers: Barbara Hatfield and Sarah Kidd
Pallbearers: Ben Baker, Noah Gent, Tim Mike, John "Tony" Mike, Chris Watkins, Shane Gent, and Chad Taylor
Honorary Pallbearers: Great Grandchildren
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.coffey-fh.com for the Johnston family.
