James Gennero Billotte

James Gennero Billotte (“Jim,” “Jimmy,” or “Jimmy Gelati”) passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2026 due to complications associated with Covid-19. He is survived by his wife Cherolen Laverne Billotte (“Sherry”), his daughters Teresa Ann Ratcliff (“Teri”) and Jamie Billotte Moses as well as his five grandchildren Sunnie Michon Diaz, Shasta Maleah McClain, James Harwood Ratcliff (“Woody”), Ashley Marie Moses, and Bennett Clay Moses. Additionally, Jim is survived by his two great grandchildren Madisyn Rylie Segal and Mateo Eric Diaz. Jim was also close with his niece Cynthia McDaniel Estes (“Cindy”) and her children Sherlynn Estes, Michelle Stann, and Joey Estes. Jim had a special relationship with his sons-in-law, Thomas Ratcliff and Scott Wright. Jim was preceded in death by his daughter Marie Antonette Segal (“Toni”) and her husband Howard.

Jim and Sherry met at Escondido High School where they were the “it” couple. Jim was on the football and wrestling teams, and Sherry was in student council and cheerleading. Jim and Sherry married on February 4, 1956 and remained devoted to each other for more than 70 years. Jim served as the Master of Ceremonies for every high school reunion he attended!

Jim grew up traveling on the circus with his parents James and Mary. Jim knew all the secrets to all the games and could win any game at any festival at any time. Obviously, the girls (and eventually the grandkids) loved that. As Jim grew up, he and his father bred and raced thoroughbred horses. Many a weekend was spent at the racetrack or horse auctions. Jim had an incredibly special relationship with his father and spoke with him every day until his father passed. Jim was also a devoted son-in-law and cared for Sherry’s parents like his own.

Jim started his career with Mayfair Markets and eventually opened up Farmer Boys Produce which he ran for over 40 years. Jim and his partner Pete were well known in Fullerton, CA for their quality produce and great prices. Jim personally drove to the Los Angeles Produce Market three days a week to purchase all the produce for the stores. He was known on the Los Angeles Produce Market for being a tough negotiator, but an honest customer.

Jim worked as hard at home as he did at work. He managed to keep their residence, yards, and cars in impeccable condition and immediately addressed every item on Sherry’s never-ending “Honey Do List.” For many years, he spent his only day off – every other Sunday – entertaining his oldest granddaughters while Toni and Howard worked the swap meet.

Given how hard Jim worked, the day he could retire – July 1, 2002 – he did! Jim and Sherry retired in Longwood, Florida to be with Teri’s and Jamie’s families. They traveled the world with friends and family. The tried to attend every school and sporting event that Woody, Ashley, and Bennett had. They filled their lives with friends from Annunciation Catholic Church, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and Sabal Point Homeowners Association. Jim and Sherry were always the life of the party! In 2023, they moved to Village on the Green, an independent living community, and instantly made more friends and filled their days with activities.

Jim was universally loved by all who knew him. He will be missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, October 26, 2026 from 1:00 – 3:00pm in the Longwood Room at Village on the Green (500 Village Place, Longwood, FL 32779).