Obituaries

Billie Jean DeLay

Photo of Billie Jean DeLay
Billie Jean Stoddard DeLay was born in Little Rock, Ark. on February 9, 1938 to Florine and Gene Stoddard. She graduated from Little Rock Central High School in 1956. After high school, she attended Little Rock Junior College and majored in business, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. In June of 1958, she married Richard W. DeLay. She worked at the agricultural extension office for three years, and then later worked in the family business of Hillcrest Cleaners, where she managed a branch office for over 20 years. Billie's hobbies included craft projects, arranging flowers, gardening, and collecting dolls and miniatures. She and her husband built several doll rooms and a large dollhouse, which was featured in a national miniature magazine. She was a member of the Central Arkansas Doll Club and a miniature group. She also enjoyed traveling to Branson to watch shows and musicals. She loved animals, especially cats and always had several. Her favorite pastimes were always watching any program, ball game, or dance recital that her grandchildren were a part of. Billie was a member of Pulaski Heights Christian Church. Her father and mother preceded her in death. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 54 years, Richard W. DeLay, two sons, Rick (Sharon) DeLay of Little Rock, Randy (Tina) DeLay of Benton, and one daughter, Renee (Kevin) Swindell of Bentonville. She also leaves behind her beloved seven grandchildren, Tad (Libby) DeLay, Cody DeLay, Shelby DeLay, Shannon DeLay all of Little Rock, Tyler DeLay and Kaylee DeLay of Benton, and Allison Swindell of Bentonville; one brother, Bud (Reba) Stoddard of Benton and nephew Greg Stoddard. She is also survived by her special cousin, Sherry Price (Jim) of Hot Springs, cousin, Rick Schneider of Hot Springs, cousin, Dean (Tommy) McMillin and many relatives and friends. Graveside service will be Friday, May 6th, 2011 at 10 a.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park. There will be no visitation. Arrangements are by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (501) 224-8300. Memorials may be made to Pulaski Heights Christian Church, 4724 Hillcrest Avenue, Little Rock, Ark. 72205 or the Humane Society of Pulaski County, 14600 Colonel Glenn Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72210. The family wishes to thank Dr. Brian Bean and all of the nurses and staff at St. Vincent CCU for their kindness and compassion. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.

Published May 5, 2011

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