Billie Lee Heidelberg was born in Midland, Texas on January 12, 1936, to Vernon Holton Heidelberg and Adah Agnes (Driver) Heidelberg. Billie H. Johnson left her earthly temple on February 18, 2024... very ready to see her Savior face-to face.
Billie's family lived in Clovis, New Mexico, for two years during WWll before returning to Midland. She was baptized at a small Baptist church at Clovis, New Mexico, when she was 11 years old. Billie's family moved from Midland to Tucson, Arizona, in 1948. Billie married Donald W. Johnson in Tucson, Arizona, on June 10, 1956. Don and Billie had 2 sons and 1 daughter: Donald Wayne, Jr., David Lee, and Hope Lorraine Johnson.
In 1964, the family moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, as Don returned to college to complete his bachelor's degree. Billie completed her 'Putting Hubby Through', as a secretary, while Don went to school. They then moved to the island of Guam in 1968. While on Guam, Billie finished her Bachelor's in Home Economics from the University of Guam and taught Home Economics and History for 4 years on the island. They enjoyed travel and did a lot of it during the 8 years on Guam. One summer Don and Billie visited Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea. Another summer the whole family visited Europe and explored 8 countries. They moved to Fort Collins, Colorado, in 1976 as Don returned to school for his doctorate degree. Billie became a church secretary while Don attended school at Colorado State University. She served 16 years as a church secretary at First Christian Church. In 1986, Don and Billie started Alpha Plastic and Design, of which she was the receptionist and bookkeeper.
Billie and Don continued their travels while living in Fort Collins. They spent a month in Thailand with a church mission there. One summer they were part of a church group that visited Israel. While in Israel, Billie was baptized (again) in the Jordan River. After selling the business, Billie enjoyed traveling with Don across the US in their RV to visit friends and relatives.
Throughout her life, Billie loved to sew and create beautiful garments for herself, her children, and grandchildren. Spending time in the garden with Don was also a favorite pastime through the years. She greatly enjoyed being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Billie was always active in a Christian church wherever they lived. She loved the Lord and enjoyed leading Bible studies and participating in women's groups. Billie was a natural born teacher who shared her knowledge of the Lord with many younger women. She was a beloved mentor to many of them. She was also an intercessor who would pray with anyone who asked for prayer.
Billie is survived by her husband Donald Wayne. She is also survived by her sister Lila Heidelberg Holtby, and brother Richmond J. Heidelberg. Billie's children are Donald Wayne, Jr., and spouse Annabeth; David and spouse Peggy; Hope and spouse Steven Mielke. Her grandchildren are Kara Pitou and spouse Cameron Pitou; Caleb and spouse Rebecca Johnson; Jonathan Mielke; Sandia, Adalee, and Samuel Johnson; and her great-grandchildren are Addison Kate Johnson and Duke David Johnson.
Billie's sweet and kind spirit will be greatly missed by her family and a multitude of friends. While our hearts may be sorrowful, our many memories will keep her alive in our hearts until we see her again. She is at home with Jesus!
A Memorial Celebration gathering will be at 3:00 PM on Sunday, March 3, at Vintage City Church, North Auditorium, 1501 Academy Court in Fort Collins, Colorado. A brief light reception will follow.
Billie's earthly temple was put to rest on February 22, 2024, at Cheyenne National Cemetery, Cheyenne, Wyoming.
If desired, contributions may be made payable to Don W. Johnson.