Lillian Billingsley, after a long and faithful life, passes

Lillian was born to Guy and Pearl Badasci on January 29, 1926, in Hanford, California. From an early age, Lillian was a fixture at her parent's grocery store. Not only did she develop a strong work ethic, but she also built lasting friendships with the patrons of the grocery store. Education was valued by Lillian. She attended Lemoore area schools and graduated from Lemoore High School in 1944. Due to her pride in Lemoore High, her classmates affectionately called her Tiger Lil. While at Lemoore High, she grew to love journalism and eventually became the editor of the school newspaper. 

She met D.C. Billingsley in high school. When D.C. was called to serve in WWII, Lillian remained steadfast and supportive of D.C. from thousands of miles away. Upon his return, the two were married in San Luis Obispo at the Mission. Their marriage of 59 years was galvanized by faith, sacrifice, and trust. During their marriage, Lillian and D.C. raised seven wonderful children. By opening a tire shop in the 1950s, D.C. and Lillian were able to teach their children the value of a dollar and a hard day's work. Lillian made sure all her children were at Mass every Sunday. Lillian modeled the character of a selfless Catholic. Anything that St. Peters Catholic Church or Mary Immaculate Queen school needed, she provided without question. One of the highlights of her life was going to the Vatican with D.C. and meeting Pope John Paul II. Lillian was actively involved in leading fundraisers at M.I.Q., establishing the parent club at M.I.Q., helping with the Brownies and Cub Scouts, and supporting her children's sports teams. 

In her free time, Lillian was an avid golfer and a member of the Lemoore Ladies Golf Club. Her greatest accomplishment on the course was making a hole-in-one. Beyond golfing, she also enjoyed playing bridge once a month with her friends. In 2014, Lillian was chosen as Kings County's Homecoming Queen. She was very proud of this honor. With all her heart, Lillian loved people. Hosting parties, weddings, and family reunions were never seen as a burden, but rather they brought her great joy. It was at these events that family and friends were able to appreciate her great sense of wit, humor, and style. She never hesitated to say how much she appreciated her family and friends. Being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, it goes without saying that she loved children. Many people will recount her glow when holding a newborn. From the beginning of her life, the family was always at the forefront.

Her smile was the brightest during the Sunday dinners she hosted. No person left her home without a full stomach, a good laugh, and a feeling of Lillian's love. Although she now rests with the Lord, the living on earth will never forget Lillian's empathy, selflessness, and love for people. Lillian was preceded in death by her husband, D.C. Billingsley, her sister Evalyn Wood, and brothers Ted, Guy, and Bill Badasci. She is survived by her brother Bob (Ann) Badasci, and her sister-in-law Virginia (Ted) Badasci Sartor. She is also survived by her children Ann (Bill) Stone, David (Vickie) Billingsley, Tom (Susan) Billingsley, Mary Reni Billingsley, Tim (Fran) Billingsley, Pat (Mary) Billingsley, and Michael (Kris) Billingsley. She has 24 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren. 

Lillian's services will be on January 11, 2023, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Lemoore. After the viewing, a Rosary will be recited at 10 am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial. Graveside services will then be held at Lemoore Cemetery. In lieu of flowers and gifts, please donate to Mary Immaculate Queen School.