Willetta “Billie Jo” Herr, 91

August 22, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Willetta (Billie Jo) Herr, a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend to many, who departed this life at home and surrounded by family on August 22, 2024, at the age of 91.

Billie Jo was born on September 24, 1932, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where she was raised in a loving family that nurtured her strong sense of faith. A devout Catholic throughout her life, Billie Jo was dedicated to her daily prayers and found solace and strength in her faith, especially through the rosary, which she prayed with unwavering devotion, following the tradition set by her parents.

A passionate advocate for her community, Billie Jo was proud to sit on City Council in Lancaster, where she worked tirelessly to make positive changes for her constituents. Her commitment to public service was also evidenced by her role as a Troop Leader then Field Director for Girl Scouts, where she inspired countless young women to become leaders and active contributors to society. Billie Jo’s guidance and mentorship left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with her.

Billie Jo was also a dedicated volunteer at her church, where she served faithfully, contributing her time and energy to community outreach programs such as the St. Rita Ministry. Her deep sense of faith and service was evident in all she did.

In 2000, Billie Jo relocated from Pennsylvania to North Carolina to be closer to her daughters and grandkids. She quickly made a new home in the community, continuing to share her love, wisdom, and kindness with all who knew her. She was a familiar face at the desk of the Taylor YMCA in Cary before working at studioVIBE – founded by Patty – where she prided herself as “Director of Customer Engagement”. For those who experienced her in this role, you will understand why she often said it was her favorite job she ever had.

Billie Jo was the heart and soul of her family and friends. Her home was always open, filled with laughter and warmth. All who knew her will forever remember her kindness, wisdom, wit, and the love she generously shared to others.

Despite the challenges brought on by dementia in her later years, Billie Jo’s spirit remained unbroken, and her love of Frank Sinatra never wavered. She truly faced this chapter with the same grace and resilience that she showed throughout her life. While we mourn the loss of her presence, we find comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, walking with God, and reunited with her beloved family members who preceded her in death.

Billie Jo was preceded in death by her parents Lloyd and Marguerite Herr, her sister Joan Burns (Frank), and her brother Jim Herr. She is survived by her remaining sister Peggy Kirchhoff (Andrew), her daughters Sue Daum and Patty Geiger (Ted), her grandsons Clay Geiger (Micah) and Danny Geiger (Rebecca), her great-granddaughter Ellie Geiger, and countless cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Prayer Service will be held at 10AM on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 414 E. King St, Lancaster, PA 17602. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Family and friends will be received from 9-10AM at the funeral home on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Billie Jo to Transitions LifeCare at: www.transitionslifecare.org. We are forever grateful for Billie Jo’s entire care team from Transitions Life Care who jumped in without hesitation and helped Patty and Sue navigate her end-of-life care.

Billie Jo’s life was a testament to the power of love, faith, perseverance, and community. We are blessed to know that she is now our angel. She earned her wings at exactly 747, and we do not think that was just a coincidence – mom wanted us to know she was in control until the end. May her legacy continue to inspire and guide us all. Rest in Peace Mom, Gran, Auntis, Aunt Billie, Sister, and Friend. We love you!