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R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home - Hampton

245 South Armistead Avenue

Hampton, Virginia

Billie Neil Obituary

Billie Jean Wheless Neil, 86, died Tuesday, September 20, 2022. Born in North Carolina to William Taft and Naomi Yeargin Wheless, she had lived in Hampton for most of her life where she retired from NASA in 1989 after almost 33 years of service. For most of her life she was a member of East Hampton United Methodist Church and sang in the church choir. She enjoyed gardening, shopping, crocheting and embroidery, going to yard sales, cooking and baking. Billie loved her grandchildren and never missed a school function or sporting event.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard E. Neil, her brother, Robert S. "Bobby" Wheless, and her longtime companion Bob Lester. Survivors include her daughter, Debra Neil Akers; her son, Richard E. "Dick" Neil, Jr.; her sister, Ann W. Wilson; four grandchildren, Jake R. Akers and wife, Taylor, Joshua Davies, Andrew S. "Drew" Akers, and Loreigh B. Akers and her fiancé, Grant Tate; a great-granddaughter, Naomi James Akers; and her faithful dog, Bella.

A memorial service will be conducted at 3:00 PM on Saturday, October 1, 2022 in the R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home chapel. The service may be viewed live on the Facebook page of R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the SPCA or the Animal Aid Society.

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

Published by Daily Press on Sep. 25, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Billie Neil

Sponsored by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home - Hampton.

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Kaylene Anderson

September 30, 2022

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Joyce Carter Winston

September 30, 2022

I was so sad to hear of Billie Jean's passing. She was a lovely lady and lots of fun to be with. Too few times together but many good thoughts. Here's to Hampton High School and memories!

Comfort Planter

With love, Ralph and Rene

Sent Flowers

Tony Fecondo

September 29, 2022

I was saddened to learn of Billie´s passing. Billie and I shared office space at NASA Langley for several years. She was a pleasant hard working lady with a great sense of humor. She will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. May God bless her loved ones and may she rest in peace.

Ann-Tilghman Bowers Rodgers, E. Hampton, VA Class of 54

September 26, 2022

Ann-Tilghman Bowers Rodgers, E. Hampton, VA Class of 54

September 26, 2022

Ann-Tilghman Bowers Rodgers, E. Hampton, VA Class of 54

September 26, 2022

Ann-Tilghman Bowers Rodgers, E. Hampton, VA Class of 54

September 26, 2022

My bestie for 80 plus years. So many memories of this precious friend and the good times we had. Remembering the time she let me drive her Daddy's car and I ran it up on another's friends yard. Thank goodness I didn't do any harm. And, our trips to Hoogies Lane in Poquoson, or Mariner's Museum on a Sunday afternoon, PJ parties at her house and Sheilas and a sleepover at my house when Billie rounded the corner and my Nannie (Grandmother Long) was standing there with her long white gown and long braid down her back.. scared Billie so much she screamed. And, and, and SO MUCH MORE. How I miss you already but feel so blessed that you left me with so many wonderful memories and your beautiful smile that will forever be embedded in my soul. I LOVE YOU "Bibbie" !! Til we meet again precious friend. Ann Bowers.. tee hee hee Billie never acknowledged my married name and it didn't matter where we were, she would simply day "Ann Bowers" is here too. Oh yes, we had some special times in our longtime friendship. 80 PLUS years with a very special friend. My deepest love and empathy to Debra, Dick and the entire family. May God grant you His glorious Peace that passes all understanding til you meet again. XOXOXO

Jeanne Meadows

September 24, 2022

Billie Jean, I only knew you for a short time but I so enjoyed your stories and your good humor. I pray that the Lord Jesus will give your family peace and comfort during this time knowing that you are in his loving arms.

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Dena Yeargin

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Memorial Events
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Memorial service

3:00 p.m.

R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home - Hampton

245 South Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23669

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R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home - Hampton

245 South Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23669

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