Edward “Bubba” Letlow and Gretchen “Billie” Letlow went home to be with their Lord and Savior on February 2 and February 26, 2021, respectively. Their final days were spent surrounded by their family and loved ones.
Bubba was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He was born in Navasota on July 26, 1930. He graduated from Navasota High School, home of the Rattlers, and attended Blinn Junior College on a football scholarship earning an associate’s degree. He then joined the Air Force, serving as an armorer on F 86 Sabre’s with the 25th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Bubba attended Sam Houston State University earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business.
Billie was a beloved wife, a cherished mother, a most precious grandmother and a treasured friend to many. She was born on May 7, 1934 in Lockport, IL. Her family later moved to Pasadena, TX, where she graduated from Pasadena High School. She attended Sam Houston State University where she was a member of the Philomathean Society, currently the Delta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha, and received a Bachelor’s degree in Education. She also attended the University of Houston where she received a Master’s in Psychology.
Bubba and Billie met while attending Sam Houston and were happily married for 65 years. They raised their two children in the Spring Branch area in Houston, and both loved spending time with family and friends and traveling to many beautiful places to see many of God’s amazing creations. Billie followed her calling in teaching and began working in the Spring Branch Independent School District in the late 1950s, teaching 5th grade at Woodview Elementary and later as a Junior High School Counselor at Spring Oak, as well as a High School Counselor at Spring Woods until retiring in the early 1990’s. Bubba worked in the Oil and Gas Industry, first with Pan American Oil, in Schneider, TX, then in the early 60’s with Gray Tool Company until starting his own business in 1968, Pro-Quip, where he worked until his retirement in 2004.
Bubba and Billie both touched many lives with their enduring love for each other and by sharing their hilarious life stories (both fact and fiction) of their past, present, and future outings. Billie especially lit up every room she entered with her big infectious smile and caring heart…. making sure you felt special. Her kindness and generosity affected all who knew her. Especially, when she gave out her famous homemade chocolate chip cookies to friends, family, and community members. She also did not believe in raising your voice, she always said “anger never solves anything, instead be kind and accepting of others”.
In the mid-1980s, Billie and Bubba moved to Fulshear, TX to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. Their love for animals flourished as their home served as a haven for birds and many rescued dogs.
Billie truly loved people, and caring for others. She was so kind and helpful never seeking admiration or recognition. For such a tiny lady, she had the biggest heart. She had a passion for politics, history and teaching. Her compassion for others was unmatched and she so enjoyed giving to those in need. Bubba was an avid collector of old bottles, petroliana, stamps, and his main passion, Britain’s Lead Toy Soldier, and building scratch “homemade” wooden model airplanes. Their happiest times were moments spent with their treasured grandson and beloved dogs.
Bubba and Billie were preceded in death by their parents, George and Lynette Letlow and Gretchen and William Landon; his brother, George Letlow; her sisters, Valarie Landon and Sally Sanford; and their daughter, Missy Letlow. They are survived by her brother and his spouse Bob and Ginny Landon; their son Casey Letlow and his wife Myna Letlow; and their grandson Cole Letlow.
The family is most thankful for the loving care and friendship of Jackie Newman, who over the past 7 years brought so much joy and laughter into their home and comforted Bubba and Billie as if they were part of her own family. They also express their gratitude for the thoughtful care given to them by the nurses and staff at Brookdale Heights and Brookdale Hospice and all the caregivers for Billie with Com For Care. Your presence brought so much peace and comfort to the family and we are forever thankful.
A private graveside service for both Bubba and Billie will be held at the Houston National Cemetery at a date to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the Houston SPCA, Citizens for Animal Protection (CAPs), or a favorite charity of choice.
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3: 5-6.
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