Katie Joyce Billing

Katie Joyce (née Fenton) Billing, 93, of Fredericksburg passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, Monday, July 25, 2022, at the home of her daughter, Kathleen O’Brien. Katie was born in Paris, France on August 27, 1928 to the late Patrick and Georgette Fenton (née Blanquart). Her husband, George Billing and her son, Lawrence Billing, preceded Katie in death. She is survived by her three daughters, Margaret Hjort, Maureen Rizer and Kathleen O’Brien (Jim); sister Micheline Bruce (Stan); six grandchildren, Katie Duggan (Greg), Kirsten McHugh (BJ), Bailey Rizer (Chris Vallejo), Jordan Rizer, Nathan O’Brien and Robert O’Brien; three great-grandchildren, Jude Vallejo, Buffy Vallejo and Oscar Duggan as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and longtime family friend, Tanya Vacek. Katie will also be greatly missed by her cherished kitties, Tosca and Minette. Katie grew up in Maisons-Laffitte outside of Paris. She met her future husband, George, while he was stationed in Paris with the U.S. Army just after WWII. They were married in April 1949. George brought his new bride back to the U.S., where they started their family in Rochester, NY. Their 65 years together had them moving many times around the U.S. and Europe. Katie became quite adept at packing, unpacking and redecorating each time. Katie was the quintessential homemaker and hostess. She loved to entertain and was happiest cooking and baking for her family and others. A skilled seamstress, knitter, needle worker and artist, there was no craft she could not master. She was always very fashion conscious and her wardrobe reflected her Parisian style, whether it was for a special event or a simple outing to the store. Katie loved to travel and was planning an upcoming trip to her beloved Paris. A memorial mass will be held at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church at 1:30pm Wednesday, August 10. A reception will follow in the Parish Life Center. Inurnment will be private at a later date. The family would like to thank all of Katie’s caring friends and neighbors at The Evergreens as well as the hospice team of MWHC for their great kindness and support. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her name to St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 1009 Stafford Ave., Fredericksburg, VA 22401; or to the Spotsylvania Animal Shelter, 450 TV Dr., Fredericksburg, VA 22408. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mullinsthompsonfredericksburg.com for the Billing family.