Billie Louise Ward

Billie Louise Ward’s Heavenly Father took her home on May 15, 2023. She was born to Bill and Elsie Lou (Willis) Montgomery on May 19, 1927 in Bulcher, Texas. She moved to Oklahoma at the age of 1, and later attended school at Meadowbrook, Oklahoma graduating in 1945.

Billie had five brothers and one sister. She married Thurman Ward on May 28th, 1949. Together they had one son, Terry Thurman Ward, they were blessed with at the age of 2.

Earl Ward and sons Cecil and Thurman purchased the Gainesville livestock auction barn in the early 1950’s and continued this until the year 2007. Billie operated the cafe at the sale barn for 60 years and was noted to have the best burgers, Red Top, and chili which was enjoyed by all. If you were a customer at the sale barn you just knew you had to enjoy Billie’s cooking.

Billie retired December 18th, 2008. She lost her beloved husband on March 17th, 2007. On August 13th, 2016 she moved into Pecan Tree Nursing Facility.

Billie’s life was filled with many wonderful and long-lasting friends. She was such a joy to visit and shared so many wonderful memories of her life with us. She was a lifelong member of the Sivells Bend United Methodist Church which she loved so much.

Billie is survived by her son Terry Ward and wife Dinah; grandson Sam Ward; granddaughter Crissy (Ward) Johnson; her great-grandchildren: Ryder and Weston Ward, Jersey and Asa Johnson, Kallen Holcomb, Chayton Holley, and Beau Wagoner; her brother Randall Montgomery and wife Sue.

Billie was proceeded in death by her parents, husband Thurman, four brothers, one sister, and granddaughter Cindy.

In lieu of flowers, Billie asked to donate to her church, Sivells Bend United Methodist Church, or a charity of your choice.

The family wishes to thank Hank Dieter, Michelle Burch, Robert and Linda Hickman, Donald and Loretta Tomison, Sally and Les Starnes, Rebecca, Sheila, Frankie, and many more that have helped.

Billie was known by her grandchildren and many others as “Nana B”. She was very loved and will be greatly missed.