In Memory Of

Harrison Billy

May 2, 1941 – May 20, 2019

A treasured member of the German American community of St. Louis and beyond, Harrison Billy, passed peacefully on May 20, 2019. Harrison was everyone’s steadfast supporter, always there and always willing. He was known by all and was the go-to person for everything. From Sister Cities, Winter Ball and Karneval, from Volksmarsch Club and Germanfest to Stammtisch, he was an active member that so many depended on. He planned our trips to Milwaukee, and served as our faithful secretary on the German American Committee. His loss will be felt by many friends far and wide, from Kansas City to Chicago to Cincinnati where he had several friends as well. A quiet person, he was a mentor to many. Called Bud by his family, he was born in Antlers, Oklahoma, the son of Martha Cole Billy on May 2, 1941 and is survived by two sisters, Jean Middleton of Texas, and Mary Sue Barnett of Oklahoma, and many nieces and nephews as well. He was preceded by five brothers and sisters, Daryl Billy, Bernita John, Janet Taylor, and James Ben. He graduated from Antlers High School in 1959 in a class of 37, and was planning their fiftieth reunion for the remaining 25 members this year. After High School he served in the U.S. Air Force, then joined a brother in St. Louis and went to work for the Globe Democrat until the merger with the Post-Dispatch. Harrison would then join Roy Leimberg who was with Pitzman’s Company of Surveyors and Engineers, and together they undertook life and all things German. Roy would plan the events and Harrison would make it happen. We will all miss this most kind and gentle man. Safe journey dear friend.

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