Billie Evelyn Eller McNeil moved to her heavenly home on June 30, 2018. She is now reunited with her devoted husband, Arthur G. McNeil, and beloved son, Gary W. McNeil.
She is survived by her daughter, Brenda O’Neil; son in-law Michael O’Neil; grandchildren Gregg McNeil (Christy), and Wes McNeil (Theresa); five great-grandchildren; three sisters, Betty Hix, Linda McDonald, and Dorothy Sowers; a brother, James Eller; and several nieces and nephews.
Billie was born in Wilkes County, North Carolina on June 6, 1927. She lived there and Radford, Virginia during her youth and much of her adult life. In 2007, she moved to Huntington Beach, California to live with Brenda and Michael, where a new chapter in Billie’s life unfolded. She met many lovely people upon becoming a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood (Chapter KB). Her outgoing personality attracted many, particularly children. They loved “Miss Billie,” and enjoyed her Starbursts and other sweet treats. In 2011, she moved to Rochester, Michigan with her family. Returning to California in 2016, her grandson, Gregg, took his “Maw-Maw” McNeil and Brenda on a 2,400 mile “road trip” back to the West Coast. That was quite an adventure! She again proved to be a fun-loving, flexible person and the best “mom” and “maw-maw” in the world.
To celebrate her 80th birthday in 2007, she took a trip with her family to England, Scotland and Ireland. Her dream was to visit London and see Buckingham Palace. She enjoyed the vacation immensely, and her dream was fulfilled.
In addition to travel, Billie enjoyed lunching at Panera Bread with Brenda, and visiting Target for their “retail therapy!” Many will recall Billie’s years at Wallace’s Smartwear and Smithman’s in Radford. Her son in-law often teased her about being a member of the “Fashion Police.”
Our family is blessed thanks to Billie’s kindness, unconditional love, and generosity. Special thanks to Betty and Duane Hix for their assistance to Billie. Thanks to the ActivCare at Bressi Ranch community in Carlsbad, California for the superb care given to “Miss Billie.” She is “winking” at you even now! And, to the team from Hospice of the North Coast, our deepest appreciation for the love, care and compassion bestowed upon Billie and her family.
Rest in peace, dearest Mom, until we meet again.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Fairlawn Presbyterian Church, Radford, Virginia or a charity of your choice.
The family received friends on Friday, July 6, 2018 at the Mullins Funeral Home in Radford. Funeral services were held followed by interment in Highland Memory Gardens in Dublin.
