Betty Joan (Eaton) Bilbrey

Betty J. Bilbrey, age 90, of Williamsville, left her earthly home to enter her eternal resting place in Heaven on April 26, 2023. She was born January 10, 1933, in Williamsville to Vernon L. and Alpha E. (Leach) Eaton. Betty married Gene Bilbrey, August 29, 1949, in Arkansas. Her beloved husband of seventy-two years preceded her in death December 30, 2021. She was also preceded in death by her parents.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Elaine Steward and husband Larry of Williamsville; three granddaughters: Tonya Miller and husband Brad of Piedmont; Amber Griggs and husband Brent of Piedmont; Melissa Woods and husband Andy of Farmington; eight great-grandchildren; Grant, McKenzie, and Connor Miller; Preston and Kendra Griggs; Taylor, Kylie, and Jentry Woods.

Betty faithfully attended the Williamsville United Methodist Church until her health declined. She was very active in her church. She taught Sunday School for years, a member of the United Methodist Women, coordinated many dinners and created numerous Christmas Program outfits. She was also Secretary/Treasurer for Duncan Cemetery for many years. Betty was the scorekeeper for many softball games her three granddaughters participated in for years. She was also the coffeemaker and baked bean coordinator for the Labor Day Picnic.

Betty was a homemaker and known for her “home canned” green beans, beets, and bread and butter pickles. She often shared them with her family, friends, and neighbors. She was an excellent seamstress and made most of her daughter's clothes along with a few prom dresses for her granddaughters. At a young age, her husband was hired by AT&T as a lineman which at that time involved much traveling. They often were at a location for a very short time. Starting off they rented but it was not easy if you weren't staying long so they finally bought a used Spartan trailer. They could be ready to pull out and be on the road in less than an hour.

Until her daughter began high school she went to several different schools in a year, in several different states. Since Betty had not finished high school, she decided to go back and join her daughter in her junior year at Greenville after asking if she would mind. So, they were not only mother and daughter but also classmates who graduated together in 1968. Betty was also her daughter’s assistant cheerleader sponsor and made some of their uniforms.

Visitation was held at 5:00 pm, Friday, April 28, 2023, at United Methodist Church, Williamsville, MO. Funeral service was held at 11:00 am, Saturday, April 29, 2023, also at United Methodist Church. Bro. Ron Mosier officiated along with Pastor Nelma Williams. A special song was provided by granddaughter: McKenzie Miller. Gary Mosier gave a heartfelt eulogy. Larry Steward, Brad Miller, Brent Griggs, Andy Woods, Grant Miller, and Connor Miller served as pallbearers. Burial was in Duncan Cemetery, Williamsville. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

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