Billie Jean Schonert

Billie Jean Schonert passed away peacefully on September 16, 2017 in Dallas, Texas at aged 88. Born to William Z. and Hattie Simpson in Redfield, Arkansas on October 2, 1928, Billie graduated from Draughon School of Business in Little Rock. She worked for General Motors for 5 years before joining the Little Rock Police Department where she worked for 31 years until she retired. During her tenure at the Police Department she developed many friendships which continued long after her retirement. Billie attended Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church and loved volunteering at the church's food pantry. Preceded in death by her two brothers; Carl and W.Z. Simpson, and sisters, Katherine Simpson, Little Rock, Pauline Nickells, Pine Bluff, Margaret Jones and Clotine Lindsey, Little Rock. Billie is survived by one son, Greg Schonert, of Dallas, Texas and two grandchildren, Andy Schonert and his wife Katie from The Woodlands, Texas and Jeff Schonert and his wife Natalia from Weehawken, New Jersey. She is also survived by three great-grandchildren, Clara, Charlie and Pilar Schonert, each of who brought her amazing joy, happiness and laughter as she heard of their exploits and spent time with them in Dallas. Billie was a gracefully resilient, ferociously independent woman who was not shy in expressing her opinions on any matter--often during spirited family discussions. Yet she was the kindest, most giving daughter, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother imaginable. Her commitment to loving and sacrificing for her family defined her. She loved family gatherings and hosting meals when family was visiting. Her baking skills were second to none. Her faith in God was steadfast. She always pulled for the underdog—the David instead of the Goliath. That allegiance was best illustrated by her love for her Razorbacks. Win or lose, no other team or fan base was better than the Hogs. She was a proud Arkansan to her core. She reveled in the state's beauty, its food, and any famous residents. For her, if it was from Arkansas, then it was the best. She was sustained by her many friendships. She was inspired by both the faith and sense of humor she received from her frequent visits and conversations with Penny Lindsey of Little Rock. Her family at Lakeshore Baptist Church strengthened her faith and allowed her to practice it in her own private and quiet way. Its members placed their faith into action at the food pantry, and helped Billie lead a longer and more spiritually fulfilled life. Though her time at Sunrise Hillcrest Assisted Living in Dallas was brief, the staff quickly became her community and she was very grateful for those who led her care team. Visitation with family and friends is scheduled on Thursday, September 21, 2017 from 5-7 p.m.at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. 72211. A funeral service celebrating her life will be held the following day on Friday, September 22, 2017 at 10 a.m., at Lakeshore Baptist Church. Burial will follow at the Orion Cemetery in Redfield, Ark. In lieu of flowers, Billie requested for donations be made to Lakeshore Baptist Church, 21 Lakeshore Drive, Little Rock, Ark. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.