Billie Jo Curtis

On Nov. 10, 2014, Billie Jo Curtis, surrounded by her children and grandchildren in Henderson, Nev., peacefully drew her last breath. Her strong will to live, unwavering faith in God and the love of her family and friends carried her through several life-threatening challenges over these last few years; ultimately allowing her to pass peacefully and in the presence of immense love and support.

Billie Jo Sherrell Curtis was born to Albert and Ruby Sherrell on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27, 1925. The youngest daughter in a family of five children, Billie attended school in Bronaugh and was a proud member of the girls high school basketball team. Later she moved to Kansas City where she gained employment with Pratt & Whitney.

On June 8, 1946 she was united in marriage to Joseph Willard "Bill" Curtis, who preceded her in death in 1996. Bill and Billie raised three children, Vicki, Monte and Kelly, in Nevada, Mo. Billie was a homemaker most of her life, but found time to assist in the family business, Curtis and Sons Real Estate and Insurance. She and her husband were active in the local community, always enjoying time with friends; including membership in the Longacre Club near Sheldon. Bill and Billie loved to travel and spent many happy miles traveling the country in their 5th wheel. In 1987, the couple began living part-time in Las Vegas, Nev., a place they both loved.

Mrs. Curtis loved bowling, reading, boating, traveling, fishing and chatting with friends and family. Throughout her life she maintained a sweet and effortless demeanor that won the trust and hearts of all who encountered her, of which many even now are being changed by her constant, nurturing love. Her signature gift of a joyful, ever playful spirit will never be forgotten. Billie possessed a truly selfless heart and her philanthropy was well known by all that loved her. She was a woman of faith and a true survivor. Through Christian example, she taught love, trust, kindness, strength, humility, courage and above all forgiveness. Billie Curtis was a blessing and in return was blessed.

For the past three years Billie resided in Henderson, Nev., with her daughter, Vicki, and her companion dog, Bogie. She loved to go on outings and fondly remembered their recent three month stay in San Diego; soaking up sunshine and watching the ocean waves. Just one week before her passing, Billie journeyed back to Nevada, Mo., with a renewed sense of vigor not seen for some time. She was able to visit with friends and family; smiling, laughing and it warmed her heart before her final journey home to the Kingdom of God. For all touched by her, their fond memories of Billie may be summed up in one sentence: She was Our Angel who laughed, loved and will forever live on in our hearts and actions.

She leaves behind her children, Vicki Cheryl Arthur, of Henderson, Nev., Monte Jo Curtis, of Nevada, and Kelly Dawn Brock, of Sheldon; grandchildren, Joshua Arthur, Andy Remington, Ashley Arthur, J.J. Curtis, Lacy Hillier, Cole Brock, and Evan Brock; cousin, Danny Sherrell; and nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends. Aside from her husband, Bill, she was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Roy Sherrell; sisters, Betty Canada, Dallas Negus, and Helen Sherrell; and daughter-in-law, Linda L. Curtis.

The family asks for a moment of prayer or remembrance on her birthday, Nov. 27, Thanksgiving Day. Billie requested graveside rites. The family wants to care for all those who cared for her therefore visitation will be held at Ferry Funeral Home.

Memorial donations can be made to Vernon County Cancer Relief, P.O. Box 24, Nevada, MO 64772, or St. Labre Indian School, P.O. Box 216, Ashland, MT 59003-9989. Yet, beyond financial donations, Billie lived by the Golden Rule: Treat others the way you would like to be treated. For example, do a loving act of kindness, make someone laugh, send a card, give a hug, or say "I love you" to someone special in her memory

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Nov. 17, at Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada. Interment will follow in Worsley Cemetery, Bronaugh, Mo., with the Rev. Bill Platt officiating. Family will receive friends from 9:30 to 11 a.m., prior to the service, at Ferry Funeral Home.