Billye Jean Schwarz

Billye Jean Kelm Schwarz, age 93, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, in Thorndale, Texas. She was lovingly known by her family as Bebe, Will, and Auntie Will. A lifelong Texan and devoted member of her community, Billye lived a life marked by service, faith, and deep love for her family and neighbors. Born on April 5, 1932, in Hare, Texas, Billye was the daughter of Henry and Adele Kelm. She graduated from Thorndale High School and remained rooted in the area throughout her life. Her early years instilled in her a strong work ethic and a commitment to helping others—values she carried with her into adulthood. Billye worked at Taylor Bedding and was also a lifelong farmer. Whether tending to the land or supporting her family through hard work, she approached every task with dedication and pride. Her industrious spirit extended beyond employment; finding joy in mowing grass and staying active well into her later years. A woman of deep faith, Billye was a devoted member of St. John Lutheran Church. She served as a Sunday school teacher and participated on the church council, always eager to contribute wherever she was needed. Her faith guided her actions and inspired her tireless volunteerism throughout the community. Billye had a heart for service that touched countless lives. She volunteered at John’s Community Hospital, the St. Vincent de Paul store, the Thorndale Volunteer Firemen Auxiliary, and many other local events. Billye’s presence was a constant source of warmth and support—a friendly face known for being talkative, loving, faithful, and always ready to lend a hand. She also embraced life’s joys with enthusiasm. Billye loved polka dancing and traveling whenever she had the chance. She rarely missed an opportunity to attend sporting events—cheering with passion and pride.

Billye was preceded in death by her beloved husband Harry Schwarz; her parents Henry and Adele Kelm; twin sister, Bobbie Love; granddaughter Natalie Schwarz and many dear friends who went before her. She is survived by son, Harry Wayne Schwarz and wife, Eve, Mickey Schwarz and wife, Suzanne; Grandchildren, Chris Schwarz and wife, Sonya, Stephanie Link and husband Sean, Hollye Schroeder and husband, Holden, great grandchildren, Aurora and Akira Schwarz, Connor and Collin Link, Henlye, Heston, Hansen, Hayes, and Harrison Schroeder, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and many other loved ones. Billye’s legacy is one of unwavering devotion—to family, faith, community, and joyful living. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire acts of kindness in the world she leaves behind. A Visitation will be held on January 26, 2026, from 05:00 PM to 07:00 PM at Condra Funeral Home at 503 Talbot St. Taylor, TX. A Celebration of Life will be held on January 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. John Lutheran Church at 315 N. Sixth St. Thorndale, TX. Burial will follow at St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery in Detmold, TX.

A visitation will be held at St. John Church Thorndale, Texas, on January 27, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. The funeral service will take place at St. John Church in Thorndale, Texas, on January 27, 2026, starting at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John Lutheran Church or Thorndale Cares, honoring Billye’s life and legacy.