Bobby Joe Billey

Bobby Joe Billey, 76, of Ada, passed away on July 2, 2025 at his home in Ada. He was born on March 8, 1949, in Las Vegas, Nevada, to his parents Ada (Wilkerson) Billey and Cecil Billey. He graduated from Madison High School and later dedicated a decade of service to Chickasaw Nation Transportation, where he became known for his reliability, strong work ethic, and quiet strength. In both his professional and personal life, Bobby carried himself with dignity and pride. On October 10, 1969, Bobby married the love of his life, Jean Billey, in Dallas, Texas. Over their 47 years of marriage, they built a strong and loving home together and raised a family that he cherished deeply. Bobby was a devoted husband and a fiercely proud father, always supportive of his children's accomplishments and ever-present with a warm smile or a wise word. Outside of work, Bobby's heart belonged to the pow-wow trail. A highly respected straight dancer-known for performing the gentleman's dance-he traveled to many pow-wows and gatherings, celebrating and sharing his culture with grace and authenticity. He also found joy in selling Native American blankets, which not only allowed him to make a living but also introduced him to countless friends along the way. In his free time, Bobby enjoyed visiting the neighborhood bar, where he was well-known for his skills at the pool table. He could often be found laughing with locals, cue stick in hand, embracing community and camaraderie wherever he went. But perhaps Bobby's favorite role of all was that of grandfather. He adored his grandchildren and loved spending time with them, making sure each one knew how special they were to him. Bobby's warmth, humor, and unwavering pride in his heritage leave behind a legacy that will continue through the lives of those who knew and loved him.
Bobby is survived by his two loving daughters, Tammy Drinkwater and Annica Factor; and his cherished grandchildren: Mickayla Davis, Maicah Drinkwater, Nan-Aiyana Billey, Sakhir'a Billey, Tafv Factor, and Dallas Factor. He is also survived by his sons-in-law, Miguel Drinkwater and Matthew Factor.
Bobby is preceded in death by wife Jean Billey, his parents, Ada Billey and Cecil Billey, and his siblings: Martha Jordan, Dorothy Schramm, Debbie Billey, Roy Billey, Jimmy Billey, Buddy Billey, Aderan Billey, and Linda Aleman.
There will be a graveside service held to honor Bobby's life on Monday, July 7, 2025 at 11:00AM at Hickory Hill Cemetery in Fittstown, Oklahoma.
Pallbearers will include Miguel Drinkwater, Matthew Factor, and Michael Roberts.