Billie Jean Campbell

Jean Campbell was born in the spring of 1930 and passed from this life October 13, 2022. She had been a resident of Chicago since 1959. She grew up on a cotton farm in the Panhandle of Texas, went to Texas Tech University upon high school graduation but had other plans after one semester. She went to Business College in Plainview and pursued a secretarial career. She was very active in the Business and Professional Women's Organization as well as the Chamber of Commerce. She travelled the southwest on her vacations and got a taste of the other world outside of where she grew up. She began longing for something more, and researched the top ten cities in the U.S., seeking opportunities of better paying jobs for women. At age 29 she chose the windy city of Chicago. In the spring of 1959 she disposed of her western belongings, packed a few bags and hopped the train to head for her new job with an advertising agency. Next came WGN Radio/TV where she met many people of interest and made lifelong friendships. WGN announced the Chicago Cubs baseball games which she was always on the scene. Being from a family of baseball fans this was a "real fit" for her. After a number of years she then found her niche with the City of Chicago where she stayed for over 30 years, working with various departments. Her favorite was the 18th District as a Beat Rep. Coordinator for the Police Dept in crime prevention. She became one tough lady dealing with the gangs of Cabrini Green and trying to make neighborhoods safe. She worked tireless with the seniors and other citizens, trying to build confidence, trust, and good communication with them. She and Senorita Kid were a team in trying to clean-up all types of crime. There was even an article of their work which was published in the Readers Digest edition. There was a JEAN CAMPBELL DAY designated and a neighborhood celebration occurred to honor this lady for her time and talents, and passion to make things safe. Jean gave her all to her job, and stayed in the work force until her late 70's. Working was her life and passion and she was lost soon after soon after retirement. She did not take well to idle time and soon began to have health issues. That is when she began to look for ways to volunteer her time and talents with others. The Brookdale retirement facility became her home and extended family, which brought her much joy. She will be remembered as being head-strong, taking charge, and having the attitude of "my way". Her other passions were western murder mysteries, plus country/western music. She enjoyed the Cowboy Symposium in NM, her one big splurge was Native American jewelry. You can take the girl out of the country, but you cannot take the country out of the girl! We wish her many happy trails. Survivors include a sister and brother-in-law of Amarillo, Texas, a few cousins, and a host of friends. Memorials can be made to your favorite youth charity or The Cenacle in Chicago. Big thanks and appreciation to Brookdale staff, St. Joseph Hospital, and other medical staff. We are most grateful to you and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.