Billie Joyce Schmierer

Billie Joyce Schmierer, 77 years old from Stockton California passed away peacefully at Dameron Hospital on January 29th, 2025. Billie is proceeded in death by her beloved husband Gary Schmierer, and oldest son Tommy Hitner. She is survived by her youngest son Christopher Hitner and grandchildren Ashley & Makena Hitner, Bryan, Patrick and Christina Ross.

Billie was born to William Valencia and Esther Gallego on May 31st, 1947. She spent her childhood living in French Camp with her mother Ester and sisters Julia, Siliva and later her niece Julann.

Billie married Gary Schmierer in 1982, and together they spent over 33 wonderful years raising their sons, Tommy and Christopher. Throughout their marriage, they shared a life full of love, eventually welcoming grandchildren into their family and helping to bring them into the world. Billie and Gary would frequently host family pool parties at their beautiful Quail Lakes home “Camp Piccardo”. Gary would barbecue delicious Tri Tip while Billie and family would swim and sunbathe at the poolside for hours. What happy times we all had together, Billie and Gary were just happy to have us all there enjoying ourselves.

Billie’s life is marked by her intense generosity and love of her family. Billie’s and Gary’s house is the pinnacle of family celebrations and holiday parties where she would shower her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews with gifts, food, and the sweetest hugs. Billie’s love for her family was like nothing else, she would do anything for anybody, always. In fact, Billie opened her home to family members in-need on many occasions. Billie’s natural inclination to take care of others was fostered when she started working in her mother’s restaurant waiting tables. Billie went on to have a 28-year career as a cocktail waitress and bartender at the iconic Stuart Anderson Black Angus, where she often served cocktails to her visiting family and Shirley Temples to the children. Billie loved spending time on the coast and made many trips there with her family and beloved husband. More recently, she had taken several trips with her granddaughter Christina. The world will miss Billie’s signature smile and contagious laugh which would light up a room.

Billie had a deep love for animals, caring for countless cats and dogs, each holding a special place in her heart. Among them was her sweet chihuahua, Chloe, who will miss her dearly. She also loved reading novels, luxury makeup and fragrances, and watching her favorites soap operas like General Hospital.

Billie’s memory will be carried on by her friends and family who join for a celebration of life at DeYoung Memorial Chapel at 601 N. California Street, March 7th at 1pm.