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Billie Van Ry Obituary

Born September 4, 1923, died October 2, 2010. Billie is survived by her husband James Q. Van Ry; daughter Diana R. Van Ry, son in law Allan G. Tilton; granddaughter Korinna Z. Spanos; step grand daughters Kathleen (Peter) Lardner and Elizabeth (Kevin) Mellor; great grandchildren James R. White and Zoe M. Holmes; step great grandchildren Katie Mellor and Josephine Mellor. Preceded in death by her son James N. Van Ry. Billie died suddenly in her sleep. She was found in her cottage on her daughter's and son in law's residential property in Forestville where she had been living since April 2009. Born and raised in Tulsa, OK, she and husband Jim moved their young family to northern CA in the early 60's. They have lived in Sonoma Co. since approx. 1980. In her younger years, she was very accomplished in the arts of sewing, needlepoint and knitting. Gardening, both floral and vegetable, was one of her interests and she was also an avid reader of the mystery genre. Billie was a loving wife, mother and grandmother to her children and grandchildren. She will be sadly missed by all the members of her family. Friends and family are invited to attend a service, Wednesday, October 13, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Santa Rosa Memorial Park, Hillcrest Mausoleum, 1900 Franklin Ave., Santa Rosa. Memorial donations may be made to Council On Aging, Meals On Wheels, 30 Kawana Springs Rd., Santa Rosa, CA 95404. SANTA ROSA MORTUARY EGGEN & LANCE CHAPEL, 545-3747.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Press Democrat from Oct. 8 to Oct. 11, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
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3 Entries

Jimmy.. behind car

Steve Roberts

October 14, 2010

Hi Diana.. don't know if you'll remember me. Steve Roberts from across the street in Tulsa. I don't know how I stumbled onto this, but I did. My birthday was Oct. 2. So sorry to hear about your mother. So sorry to hear about Jimmy. I hope your dad is doing well. Sure was a long time ago.. [email protected]

Karen Norton

October 13, 2010

As a native Californian, I have lived my life surrounded by people in a hurry. But whenever I had the pleasure of being around Billie, I felt encouraged to take a deep breath and enjoy the moment.

Perhaps it was her warm smile or her southern-inspired greeting that made me connect with a gentler time.

I know Billie was not one to need fancy possessions or a busy social schedule. She always put her family first. Although she became less mobile herself, she never lost concern for her husband's well-being. The great devotion and love between Billie and Jim set a great example for us all.

Billie was very fortunate to have spent her last months in the beautiful surroundings of Diana and Allan's home, and to have shared much time with a truly amazing granddaughter and great-grandchildren.

I will never forget one Thanksgiving, when Diana and Allan invited me for dinner. Being relatively newly separated and with my children at their father's house, it could have been a lonely time for me. Between Diana and Allan's hospitality and Billie's warm welcome, it was impossible not to feel like extended family.

I trust that Billie is at peace and enjoying the company of her son. I picture Billie's recently lost canine companion at their side.

The world is richer because of Billie, and I'm glad to have known her and shared in her memory.

Jean-Marie Heskett

October 8, 2010

My condolences to Jim and his family for the loss of his wife. My prayers are with all of you.
I met Billie and Jim at Brighton Gardens on a speaking engagement and luncheon.

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