Billie Jean Draper

Billie Jean Draper obituary, Durham, NC

Billie Jean Draper

Billie Draper Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc - Durham on Jul. 24, 2025.

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Billie Jean Wrenn Draper, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Durham, NC, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's. She was born and raised in Durham.

Billie Jean had a passion for the simple joys of life. She enjoyed reading books and watching tennis. Her flower garden was a testament to her nurturing spirit. She enjoyed listening to country music, with Hank Williams being one of her favorite artist. She delighted in finding hidden treasures when she went thrift shopping. In the kitchen, she was known for her cooking and baking.

Billie Jean was preceded in death by her father, William Edward Wrenn; her mother, Hilda Martin; her sister, Dalhia Mae Carter; and her brother, Roy Edward Wrenn.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Michael Lloyd Draper; her son, Steven Michael Clayton, and his wife Brenda; her daughters, Sherry Renee Clayton and husband Doug, Clayton Wrenn (Lori) and her husband Keith of Texas, Virginia Williams of Iowa, Shannon Elizabeth Draper of Durham; brothers, Ronald Wrenn and wife Audrey of New Bern, Walter Wrenn and wife Louellen of Warrenton; sisters, Bettie Anne Burke of Texas, Ann Higgs and her husband Norman of Oxford; along with 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren who will carry on her legacy of love and kindness.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 6-8 pm at Clements Funeral Home in Durham. A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 11 am, also at Clements Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at Maplewood Cemetery in Durham.

Flowers are welcome, or donations may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America or UNC Hospice. Billie Jean's gentle spirit and loving heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family is being assisted by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. in Durham. Online condolences may be sent to www.clementsfuneralservice.com.

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

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