Billie J. Hooper, nee Frederick, age 72, passed away on July 9, 2015 in Stow, Ohio.
Billie was predeceased by her parents, William and Cleo Frederick; her beloved son, Mark Juntunen; and her sister, Joann Frederick Gunther.
Billie is survived by her sister, Norma J. Wagar of Kent Ohio; nieces and nephews, Julie Wagar, Bill [Monica] Wagar, Kathy Wagar, Michael [Jennifer] Wagar, all of Ohio, Rick Gunther and Jeff [Terry] Gunther of Florida, Janette [Rob] Allen and Michael Gunther of California; dear friend, Peggy Estrada of Fairhope Ala.; many great-nieces, -nephews, friends; and faithful companion, “Rooney.”
Billie grew up in Owosso Mich. with her parents and two sisters. After graduating from Owosso High School, Billie worked in several states and attended college in Michigan and Alabama.
A Southern belle at heart, Billie spent most of her life living and working in Alabama, raising her son and enjoying life on the Gulf Coast.
She had many friends on the gulf, and was involved in conservation efforts through the Dauphin Island Estuarium. Billie was also a champion of animals, volunteering for local animal shelters and rescuing many animals herself.
Billie devoted much of her career working for Bellsouth in Mobile, Ala.
When Billie wasn’t fighting the hurricanes, she assisted others through her work with FEMA following the devastation of Hurricane Ivan. She received a letter of appreciation and commendation from then-Gov. Riley for her door-to-door work with individuals affected by the hurricane.
Never one to shrink from a challenge or an adventure, Billie bought a camper, and spent several years of her “retirement” traveling across the country, accompanied by her beloved pets, working at the Grand Canyon facilitating tours and charming the tourists! Billie spoke fondly of those years and the many wonderful friendships she made at the canyon.
Billie was truly a “people person,” whether working with customers throughout her career, assisting fellow Gulf Coasters through years of hurricanes and conservancy efforts, line dancing with friends, or making new friends through her travels across the country.
Mardi Gras was one of her favorite times of the year, and one can only imagine the shenanigans she got into in New Orleans! She had the beads to prove it!
Despite the toll of Alzheimer’s disease, her family will always remember her as sassy, joyful and the life of the party. Until we meet again Billie, “Let the good times roll!”
A Mardi Gras celebration of life is being held at the family home on Aug. 8, 2015.
Donations in Billie’s name can be made to any Alzheimer’s Research Association.
Lastly, we thank the staff of Maison Aine for their attentive care given to our beloved Billie.
