Billy Gene Birdsong

Everyone’s life is the sum total of all of the people they have met, the things they have done, the places they have gone. Billy Gene Birdsong was no exception. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Billy will be remembered as a very exceptional person.

Billy’s life journey began on April 18, 1932. He first greeted the world in Ridgen, Arkansas. His parents' names were William Earl and Inez Cullum Birdsong. He was raised in the city of Chula Vista, California along with one sister, Norma and one brother, Loyd.

Billy was a typical teenager who had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from Chula Vista High School. Billy was also “Lettered” in football.

Falling in love is a huge milestone for any person. Just knowing that you have met that special someone is a magical feeling. Billy experienced that with Jerry Fay Cody and the couple exchanged wedding vows on May 17, 1957. The wedding took place at the Valecito stage Coach Station in San Diego, California. Empathic and loyal, Billy was committed to making his new family happy.

While everything a person does in life contributes to who they grow into, it is ultimately this same person who holds the most influence on the next generation. Billy was blessed with Billy Gene Birdsong, Jr. and Leslie Kay Lambert. Billy worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs, raising his children in a positive and nurturing environment.

How a person performs in the workplace can be a reflection on how they live their life. Fortunately, Billy enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Billy worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. Billy served in the United States Army where he was in the 29th Regimental Combat team and also selected as best soldier in his regiment. Billy also worked at ROHR Industries for 45 years.

A person's hobbies often mirror who they have become. Billy enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in a number of different activities, including, playing softball with Rohr coworkers, being involved in the “Happy Hookers” club also at Rohr. Billy was a developer of Stretch-Dye while employed at Rohr Industries.

Billy Gene Birdsong left us on May 15, 2012. He passed away in his home in Chula Vista, California. The cause of death was due to Congestive Heart failure. He is survived by his son Billy Gene Birdsong, Jr. Services were handled by Glen Abbey Mortuary. A funeral service was held at The Little Chapel of the Roses. Billy was laid to rest at Glen Abbey Mortuary and Memorial Park in Bonita, California.

So this is Billy’s life, the sum of the man that he became. Simply stated, Billy was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being caring and giving, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Billy leaves behind him a legacy of lifelong friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life Billy Gene Birdsong touched will always remember him with a smile.