Billie LaRue Werner

Billie was born on October 10, 1935 in Childress, Texas. She was born to Greer Clarence “Red” Weightman and Lola Faye Moore Weightman, and was the eldest of three girls. Her sisters are Elise Cagle and Sandra Springer. The ‘girls’ had their weekly fireside chats, without fail.

She attended Community Center school in Childress and attended Kirkland High School in Kirkland, Texas. Included in her education, she received her Associate of Arts degree from San Jacinto College in Pasadena, Texas.

Billie met a long, tall young man in school named Preston Othell “Slim” Werner who stole her heart. Prior to him being sent to Korea, he asked her to marry him. He wanted to ensure she would be there when he returned from the service. They married on December 4, 1953 and were fortunate to have had 66 years together. Two children, Steven Othell Werner and Judy Elaine Werner (Sanders), both living in Deer Park, Tx, are a result of their union. She gained a loyal son-in law, David Sanders, two loving granddaughters, Kayla Denise Sanders and Katlyn Delaney Sanders, and was blessed to have a great-grandson named J.J. (Kayla’s son). Justin Morton (Katlyn’s boyfriend) is included as we consider him family, as well.

The City of Deer Park welcomed Billie when she was hired to work for the Deer Park Public Library. She left the library with health issues, but the city called upon her to come back to work there, which she accepted and worked until she retired from the library.

Over the years, she remained close with several childhood friends from Childress and Kirkland, Mickey Pelley, Patsy Pickrell and Nelda Rogers. This foursome hung tight for all these years. Billie treasured their friendships.

When the Werners moved to Deer Park in 1967, they were fortunate to have wonderful neighbors across the street, Joe and Gloria Kennerty. Gloria has been a fabulous friend to both Billie and Othell. They’ve always looked out for each other.

Billie would be best described as a true lady, a gentle person, kind and loving soul, vibrant personality, and a person who could ‘have a conversation with a fence post’. She knew no strangers. She enjoyed working in her flower garden, and had a love for sewing.

Though she will be missed here on earth, she will be remembered for all the good she did while here.