Kathryn L. 'Billie' Helm, age 96, Joplin, passed away at 7:12 p.m. Friday, November 22, 2019 at Communities of Wildwood Westgate, following an illness.
Billie was born August 30, 1923 in Hockerville, Oklahoma to the late Charles Edward Lile and Laura Rozelle McKinney Lile and had lived in the Joplin area most of her life.
Billie served as music director at various churches in the area for over thirty years. She was the co-founder of Christian Women's Club of Joplin; co-founder and past president of Grandparent's Rights of Missouri; helped to establish the Seven Springs Baptist Mission Church of Seven Springs, Florida (and served as music director for nine years); and longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir and served as past president of the Sonshiner's Seniors.
Billie married Tom A. Helm on September 6, 1941 in Joplin. He preceded her in death on September 5, 2008. They were together for sixty seven years, singing together throughout the 4-state area and Florida, giving concerts in various churches and at special occasions.
Billie was also preceded in death by a son, Chris A. Helm; and a grandson, Nathan Helm.
Services are planned for Friday at 2:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel. Brandon Dorris, minister, will officiate. The family will receive friends Friday from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the mortuary. Interment will follow Monday at Osborne Memorial Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.
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