Billie Van was born February 27, 1928 in Chico, to Van Hiriam and Jessie Mae Hilton and after three months moved back to Dalhart where she grew up. She attended Oklahoma College for women where she joined De Gamma Ve Sorority.
Billie Van had resided in Amarillo since 1949 and retired from Diamond Shamrock Oil and Gas Company in 1983.
Billie Van married Ernest Winton on December 7, 1973. She was a member of Paramount Terrace Christian Church, Hillside Christian West and lamplighter’s Sunday adult class.
She earned a lifetime membership on the Board of Directors of the National Kidney Foundation of West Texas in 1984, served with the Amarillo Cancer Society and Cattle Barons Ball. She enjoyed life, her daughter Leslie, granddaughter Celeste and friends. She had many interests including sewing, crafts, bridge, water skiing, bowling, golf, line dancing, and clogging.
Billie Van was preceded in death by her parents, husband, grandparents, and beloved aunts and uncles.
Survivors include a daughter Leslie Kinnison Harris of Randolph, granddaughter Celeste Sharp of Fort Worth; an Aunt LaNell Hopkins who was like a sister to her; her cousin Darrell Gene Spann; and her special friends June Bearden and Ruth Trickey.
Family will receive visitors from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. today at the funeral home.