Billie Lea Fullerton

Billie Lea Fullerton, a beloved matriarch, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in Blue Springs, Missouri. Born on June 21, 1930, in Reed Springs, Missouri, Billie lived a life filled with love and laughter.

Billie graduated from Reed Springs High School. Over the years, she held a few jobs in the community. Most notable, For over 25 years, Billie served as a custodian alongside her late husband, Jim, at their church, Mt. Washington United Methodist, where they contributed significantly to the welfare of their congregation.

Billie was known for her loving and calming presence, and her quick wit and humor. As a woman of deep faith, she dedicated significant time to her church, where she gave thoughtful children's sermons, imparting wisdom and joy to her young listeners. She also enjoyed sharing her love of crocheting by creating hundreds of prayer shawls that offered comfort and solace to others as a commitment to her spiritual community.

Hosting holiday gatherings was a passion for Billie at her home of 60 years, where her love for cooking and baking would shine. Her garden flourished under her care, and she often found peace while sitting on her front porch swing, admiring the hummingbirds and butterflies that visited her yard.

Billie’s proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly her family, she was deeply involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren, ensuring that love and support surrounded them at every turn. Her legacy of kindness, joy, and service will forever resonate within the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Billie is survived by her sons, Jon Fullerton and Jim “Mike” Fullerton (Debra); daughter, Vicki Snider; grandchildren, Cara McDowell (Trevor), Cathleen Fullerton (Tim Lakey), Joseph Fullerton (Emily), Justin Fullerton, Sara Fullerton and James Fullerton; also 8 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, James; parents, Rufus and Blanche (Craig) Briggs; sister, Marion Hedrick and grandsons, Travis Snider and Jamie Snider.

A visitation will be held on January 22, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Carson-Speaks Chapel in Independence, Missouri, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. She will be laid to rest at Mt. Washington Cemetery following the service.