of Letona, AR
May 9, 1929 - May 13, 2021
Billie Marsh Willingham, 92 of Letona, passed from this life on Thursday, May 13, 2021. She was born to the late Harvey and Bessie Bennett Marsh on May 9, 1929 in Letona. She was a past Board Member with the White County Historical Society, active in the Pioneer Village, author of the book "A Bessie Bug In My Ear and A Song In My Heart" and a member of the Pickens Chapel Church of the Nazarene. She will be remembered for her paintings, wood carvings, gardening and the best chocolate gravy. Other than her parents, she is also preceded in death by her husband, James Thomas Willingham; grandson, Micah McCosh; and brother, Rodney Marsh.
Survivors include her daughter, Geraldine McCosh; son, Kenneth (Judy) Wilingham; grandchildren, Jeremy McCosh, Kara McCosh Montgomery, Valorie Willingham Hughes; great grandchildren, Camryn, Tyler, Wyatt, Chase, Kaylee, Mason, Erica; great-great grandchildren, Micah, Brantley, Audrey and special self-proclaimed granddaughter, Jamie Litaker.
A visitation will be held 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. on Sunday, May 16th at Roller-Daniel Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 2:00 P.M. Monday at the Pickens Chapel Church of the Nazarene with burial at Pickens Chapel Cemetery.
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13 Condolence(s)
Paul Hazelton
Monday, July 5, 2021
She was the definition of down home folk. I loved her and everything about her. It was an honor to be her pastor for 10 years. I loved it when she would play her pic-n-stick at church. I can see her playing my favorite song as an expression of praise to Jesus:Boil That Cabbage Down.
sMary Mergenschroer
Monday, May 17, 2021
Just now read her obituary, sorry to hear of her passing. I knew her from the shoe factory days. Always loved to cut up with husband. She was always happy. Prayers for your family.
Elizabeth Heard
Monday, May 17, 2021
So sorry to hear of her passing. She was a true free spirit. and her talents were many. I met Billie thru the White County Historical Society with her many entertaining yet informative programs. She painted some character cut-outs, one a man, one a woman, where you put your face in the cut out part and the front has been painted with the persons clothing. We have used them for several years at Pioneer Village and people love to have their pictures made with them. Heaven is certainly a more fun and interesting place with Billie there!
Judith (Judy Leistiko
Sunday, May 16, 2021
She will be missed all who know her rest in peace my friend
lamar pickens
Saturday, May 15, 2021
I know for sure that you are with our Lord and you are at peace. you are a sweet lady and we are glad that we got to be with you on this earth! we will see you when we get there! <3
Linda J Willingham Shultz
Saturday, May 15, 2021
I am greatly sadden by Billie's passing. I'm disappointed I was never able to make the journey to meet Billie in person. I didn't know her as many of you did but she was my first connection to portions of my Willingham family genealogy. I greatly appreciate the insights on family she shared with me many years age. Thank you Billie. Blessings to the family.
Renee Willingham Hamilton
Saturday, May 15, 2021
Ms. Billie was so kind and helpful to me when I was first getting the genealogy bug. Her letters she shared of the family lineage and her fun phone calls will be cherished. I am a member of the White County Historical Society because of Billie. I even have her book that she sent me several years ago. I loved her stories and will miss her link she could give me to the past. She was married to my 2nd cousin 1x removed. Eternal rest, Billie. Thank you for the gift of family lineage you taught me.
Judy Johnson Riley
Friday, May 14, 2021
Billie was, hands down, the most creative and kind person I have ever known. She had a natural talent, born out of a zest for life and an eye for saving what she saw. She had no formal training and the medium she used was what was available. But much more than her art, she was kind, giving and had the best sense of humor. Her laugh would absolutely light up a room! She was brave, tackling any big project others shied from. She was a friend to everyone, always positive, always treating others with respect. I cherish her friendship and will always be grateful to have known her.
Marie Garrison McCosh
Friday, May 14, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of her passing. She was truly one of a kind. I know her family will miss her greatly. I am praying for Dean and her family. May God bless you all.
Linda Garvin
Friday, May 14, 2021
Such a lovely soul; so full of laughter and joy. I send my love to all the family
Diann Poe
Friday, May 14, 2021
Billie was always so full of life, love, and laughter, and so fun to be around. I can’t even begin to mention all the things I learned from this wonderful person, and the things we were involved in together....Extention Club, county fair, fair judging, crafts, music, herbs, the old ways that she kept alive, her writings, collecting old pictures and stories....the stories will forever be cherished!
She was a great friend, mentor, and cousin, and will be greatly missed and thought of often.
I love you Billie.
Teresa Hughes Peterson
Thursday, May 13, 2021
Sauce a wonderful lady . You will be greatly missed..
Markeita Baker
Thursday, May 13, 2021
We sure will miss her soo much. ⤠praying for the family â¤