Willa Collins Billingsley

Willa Collins Billingsley, formerly of Bessemer, AL, passed away on March 8, 2013 at the age of 73.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and a brother.
Mrs. Billingsley is survived by her husband of 55 years, Walter ""Butch"" Billingsley Jr.; her sons, Micheal W. Billingsley, Kevin (Dawn) Billingsley, William (Susan) Billingsley, Dwayne (Terri) Billingsley; her daughter, Melissa G. Baska; her brother, Bennie Johnson; her sister, Sarah Schultz; her grandchildren, Terrance ""Bear"" Lavergne, Jarren Billingsley, Mindy Bowden, Samantha Baska, Jason Billingsley, Will Billingsley, David Billingsley, Jessica Billingsley, and Rebecca Billingsley.
Born in AL on April 29, 1939, Mrs. Billingsley moved to the coast as a teenager. She was a loving mother with many talents, and her front yard would turn heads with her ""wacky"" holiday displays. Her lawn was proof that she had a green thumb and everything she planted bloomed ferociously. Making ready for up and coming shrimp boils and barbeques would bring uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends for her ""made from scratch"" cooking. Painting was a hobby that she instilled in her family, and her sewing talent included placing patches for Gulfport Police Department uniforms and making cheerleader uniforms. Her favorite pastime was fishing with her sisters, a passion they all shared. She will be sadly missed by many; may God rest her soul.
A beachfront memorial service will be held on Monday, April 29, 2013, during low tide. She will be laid to rest as the tide goes out.
RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, is assisting the family with arrangements. Tributes may be offered at www.riemannfamily.com.