Billie Doris Bailey

Billie VanZant-Kester-Bailey, 74, peacefully passed away in her home on Sunday, July 13th, 2014. Billie was born in Everton, Arkansas on April 7th, 1940 to Burl and Nita VanZant. With her family, she moved to Washington in 1945 and was raised in Selah. She attended Selah High School and sold tickets at the movie theater where she met Marvin Kester. They married in 1957 and had three children - Debra, Barbara, and Steven - whom she loved with all of her heart. When her husband became ill, she stayed by his side and stayed strong for her children after his passing.

Billie met and married Gene Bailey in 1985. Together, they enjoyed horseback riding and farming. She took pride in being a farmer’s wife where she kept a home for her entire family. She hosted numerous family gatherings for holidays and barbecues.

Billie worked at Zirkle Fruit Company for nearly 48 years where she made many lasting friendships. When she wasn’t working, one could find her canning in her kitchen or “junkin’ at the Goodwill.” She enjoyed camping and fishing at Neah Bay with her family. Bluegrass was her favorite type of music and would often travel to various music festivals with her friends. Above all that, she loved spoiling her grandchildren and spending time with them.

Billie is survived by her three children: Debra (Kim) Bloomer, Barbara (Joseph) Mills, and Steven Kester; her two step-sons: Bill (Heather) Bailey with his five children and Merle Bailey; five of her grandchildren: Crystal (Ron) Ancell, Shane (Lacie) Campbell, Justin Mills, Jessica Mills, and Garrett Kester; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her mother Nita VanZant; her three sisters: Nola Jean Brandt, Connie King, and Carol (Herb) VanZant-Hanshew; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her first husband Marvin Kester, father Burl VanZant, second husband Gene Bailey, and grandson Clayton Kester.

Visitation will be 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. Monday, July 21, 2014 at Keith & Keith Ninth Avenue Chapel.

A Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 22nd at Keith & Keith Ninth Avenue Chapel with burial following at Terrace Heights Memorial Park.

To share a memory of Billie, visit www.keithandkeith.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Keith & Keith Funeral Home, Yakima, WA.