James Roy Billingsley

James Roy Billingsley, son of the late Jordan and Libby Mae (Barber) Billingsley, was born September 7, 1928 in Newark, Arkansas where he grew up and graduated from high school. In 1950, after graduation, Jim enlisted in the United States Army and served his country faithfully until his retirement in 1974 after 24 years of service. He had attained the rank of Sergeant First Class and earned several awards and commendations for his faithful service. He served in Germany, and three tours in Korea and Vietnam. While in Germany, Jim met the love of his life, Johanna Katherina Weihbeck. They were married on February 29, 1956 in Baumholder, Germany. Jim and Johanna came back to the United States to Ft. Hood and then returned to Germany after a short time in the States. They shared over 54 years of marriage together and were blessed with three daughters: Barbara, Kathy and Nancy. After retiring from the military, Jim began working as a cook with EDP on Fort Leonard Wood and retired in 1991. He was then able to spend more time outdoors while doing things he enjoyed: fishing, hunting and enjoying wildlife in general. He was a life member of the Thomas J. Lynch VFW Post 3168 of Laquey and the American Legion Post 331 and was also a member of the Voiture Locale No. 460 of Pulaski County 40/8. . Most importantly, he cherished those times that he spent with his family and friends. Jim was well known as one of the most kind, gentle and generous man that one would ever meet. Jim passed away the afternoon of Thursday, April 8, 2010 in the Sunset Village of the Ozarks of St. Robert, Missouri at the age of 81 years, 7 months and 1 day. He will be sadly missed by all those that knew and loved him. Jim leaves to cherish his memory his wife: Johanna; three daughters: Barbara McMillan (Roger) of Corpus Christi, TX, Kathy Olson (Dean) of Ashland, MO and Nancy Pimentel of Waynesville, MO; 4 grandchildren: James Dean Olson, Douglas Jordan Olson, Joanna Marie Pimentel and Susannah Lee Pimentel; several other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by one brother: William Ray and three sisters: Rosalie Whitehead, Annie Mae Billingsley and Betty Sue Runk. Francis J. Lynch VFW Post 3168 services followed by funeral services officiated by Father John Groner were held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, April 12, 2010 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory. Soloist Becky Lercher sang “Another Soldier’s Coming Home” and “Amazing Grace”. Serving as escorts were the United States Army. Burial with military honors followed in the Sunset Memorial Estates Cemetery. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW Children’s Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan and may be left at the funeral home.

James Roy Billingsley

September 7, 1928 - April 8, 2010