Nadine Followwill

Billie Nadine Followwill, a longtime Norman resident, musician and woman of faith whose quiet devotion shaped generations around her, died peacefully in her home on December 17, 2025, lovingly tended by family. She was 96.

Born October 24, 1929, in Norman, Oklahoma, the daughter of Lee and Vivian Kidd, Nadine grew up in Norman, but went by her middle name because she wanted to avoid being known by the name of the outlaw “Billy the Kid.” In Norman High School she took part in the school chorale, expressing her musical gift that would be central to her life and would in turn become a gift to many others. She graduated in 1947.

As a young woman, Nadine worked for her father’s business, the iconic Lee’s Midway Market, before marrying Robert “Bob” Followwill in 1955, when she became an Air Force spouse. She later became civilian Air Force personnel, working at Warner Robins Air Force Base in Georgia. Nadine served as a pianist and Bob as a worship leader in churches, traveling across Oklahoma and Arkansas for their music ministry, a calling that blended faith, service, and artistry.

A gifted and accomplished pianist, Nadine played in a wide range of musical styles, including church hymns but also classical works and bluegrass. She and her aunt played in a band, the “Golden Okies,” performing at veterans’ centers and retirement homes, multiplying the joy of her gift for countless listeners.

In 1979, Nadine began working at Randall University (formerly Hillsdale College) in Moore, where she served in the Registrar’s Office, the Academic Dean’s Office, and later as administrative assistant to the President of the College, Dr. Timothy Eaton. She remained there in this lifelong pursuit of knowledge and learning, additionally helping to edit multiple doctoral dissertations. Upon her retirement in 2007, the university awarded her an honorary master’s degree and dedicated a Christmas concert to her.

Throughout her life, Nadine traveled extensively, visiting nearly every U.S. state and also internationally. She was an avid reader of many genres but most enjoyed mysteries, and remained active in music even through retirement. She was a charter member of CrossPointe Church in Norman, where her faith and music continued to play a central role through her life and service. She loved her family, her later years were brightened by spending time with, and bragging about, her grandchild Chloe. They were joined by a kitty she helped rescue, “Noble.”

Nadine was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Myrna Kidd; her son, Mike Followwill; and her husband, Robert Followwill.

She is survived by her daughter, Suzanne; her grandchild, Chloe; numerous cousins and extended family members; and her beloved companion, her “fur-baby,” Noble.

The family would like to thank the compassionate caregivers at Medical Park West, Anthem Hospice, and Cornerstone Caregiving.

In lieu of flowers, the family would request a donation be made to Randall University.

Services will be held privately.