Billie Ruth Freeman Gill, 88, of Brownwood, Texas, went to be with our Precious Heavenly Father on February 3rd, 2024 at her home surrounded by family. A memorial service for Billie will be held at 2:00 on Thursday, February 8, at Heartland Funeral Home in Early. Billie was born June 5th, 1935 to John Edward Freeman and Doris Ola Brummett in Big Spring, Texas. Billie attended Big Spring High School where she played varsity volleyball. She received a volleyball scholarship to play for Howard College as well as Texas Tech University, later graduating from Sul Ross State University with a Bachelor of Science in Education. Billie went on to pursue a lifelong career in teaching that spanned more than 30 years. Her talent for persuading even the most hesitant child to embrace education was mythical. She had an immense love for her students, that surpassed even her passion for teaching. Following her retirement, she continued teaching English to Spanish speakers at the Monterrey School of Preaching in Monterrey, Mexico, and in Cochabamba, Bolivia until the age of 71.
Billie married her soul mate, Eddie Gill Jr. on June 12th, 1958 in Big Spring, Texas. While raising two children of their own, Eddie Wayne and Andy, the Gills added two young men to their family; Bill Vardiman, and Phillip Vardiman of Abilene. The following year their daughter, Savannah, was born. Billie was proceeded in death by her husband, Eddie Gill Jr., her parents, John Freeman and Doris Griffice, her sister, Eunice Choate, and Bill Vardiman. Billie is survived by; Dr. Phillip Vardiman and Jackie of Abilene, Eddie Wayne and Kay of Whitesboro, Andy and Natasha of Brownwood, and Savannah of Arlington. She was the proud grandmother of Jade, Bradi and her husband Kyle, Jordan and his wife Katelyn, Mackenzie and her husband Alex, Gavin and his wife Savannah, Mason, and Branson. At some stage, each of them has held the position of being her “favorite” grandchild. Billie was especially proud of her great-grandchildren; Reagan, Preston, Koy, Kirby, Callum, and Eden. She is also survived by Bridgett, the mother of Reagan and Preston and many loved nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Billie started her journey as a bible class teacher at the young age of 17. She was a dedicated member of the Austin Avenue Church of Christ for more than 50 years, teaching the 4th grade bible class for many of those years. Upon her retirement, Billie selflessly served in the jail ministry for more than 16 years. She also served on the missions committee and was most passionate about the Great Commission; spreading the gospel to all the nations of the world.
Billie exemplified unwavering devotion to her faith. She held a deep love for the Lord God and served as His loyal and dedicated follower. Billie’s steadfast commitment extended to fervently praying for those who sought God’s grace. The solace her family finds lies in the knowledge that Billie has been embraced by Jesus in Heaven.
The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Martin and his staff, Billie’s Solaris hospice team for the excellent care they provided, and her very special friend, Yvonne Romero.
Billie would say to all who mourn her passing: “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (I Thessalonians 16-18).
In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations, in her name, to either of the two worthy works below:
Austin Ave Church of Christ, Mission Committee:
Austin Ave Church of Christ
1020 Austin Ave
Brownwood, Tx 76801
Shelby’s Grace:
901 N Fisk Avenue # 166
Brownwood, TX 76801
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