Billie Welch Callahan

Billie Welch Callahan left this life peacefully on Saturday, July 27, 2013, at Taylor Village Pennybyrn, and went to live with Jesus her Savior and Heavenly Father in His mansion. She lived a life full of faith, family, and service.

A native of High Point, Billie was born to Stella and Patrick Welch on March 9, 1926. She was educated in High Point Schools and attended High Point University. On August 4, 1946, she was married to Gilbert Sherwood Callahan who survives. In addition to her dedicated husband, Gib, are family members who are saddened by her passing, but celebrate her home going: A son, Michael Gilbert Callahan (Mike) and wife Sally, a daughter, Patricia Callahan Wheeler (Pat) and husband Bill, all of High Point. Grandchildren include: Erin Callahan of Raleigh, Emily Callahan Sutherland and husband Jacob, also of Raleigh, William Samuel Fagg, IV (Sam) and wife Meg of Santa Cruz, California, and Patricia Callahan Sharon (Callie) and husband, Jake, of Austin, Texas. Emily and Jacob gifted Billie with two great grandsons: Everett and Will.

Billie was a self-taught homemaker, gardener and floral designer, gifted seamstress and an award-winning artist who excelled in creating beauty for everyone she knew. She was an active member of Emerywood Baptist Church where she joyfully served in many capacities. Her most recent accomplishment for the Church was the compilation and writing of, “The History of Emerywood Baptist Church, May 20, 1956-May 20, 2006.” She oversaw the celebration for its 50 year anniversary. She was a loyal member of the Adult IV Sunday School Class, founded and Chaired the Bereavement Committee, Chaired the Wedding Committee and decorated the Church for every holiday.

Billie volunteered in the schools of High Point as her children and grandchildren attended them. She also volunteered for The Red Cross and Mobile Meals for many years.

A Memorial Service and Celebration of her life will be held for Billie at her beloved Emerywood Baptist Church at 1300 Country Club Drive at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 5, 2013. The Reverends Dr. Bob Ferguson and Dr. Hal Warlick will lead the service. A reception will be held immediately after the service in the Fellowship Hall where the family will receive all.

The family wishes to thank Billie’s special caregivers she grew to love and whom we admire greatly: Bonnie Wolfe, Chiquita Wilson, Tanara Little, Gabriella Ford, Grace Amaya-Ndamakong, Linda Inman, Latonya Yarber, Agnes Dada, Farrah Majors, and Jackie Davis. We will always remember each of you for the beautiful and tender way you cared for Billie. We also thank Dr. Lirim Tonuzi for his compassionate medical care.

Billie wished for those wanting to express a tangible memorial to direct it to Emerywood Baptist Church (at the above address), The Epilepsy Medication Fund, 1920 West First Street, Suite 5541-A, Winston Salem, NC 27104, or to the charity of one’s choice.

Please offer condolences with the family at www.sechrestfunerals.com.