Billie Geraldine Cook Etter, 89 of Elliston went home to be with the Lord peacefully in the early morning hours of May 29, 2019 at her home. Her family had been by her side as she bravely fought cancer for the past 15 months.
Billie was born on December 9, 1929 in the Ironto area of Montgomery County. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey Preston Cook and Lena Hendricks Cook. She was also preceded in death by her six sisters and one brother. Billie is survived by her husband of 69 years, Everett G. (Dusty) Etter of Elliston. She is also survived by her daughters, Becky Gardner (Randy) of Christiansburg, Kathy Pannell of Shawsville, and Terry Poff (Terry) of Elliston. Also surviving are her four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Billie is also survived by a sister, Mildred Wheeler and many nieces and nephews.
Billie was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a wonderful homemaker, cook, and baker. She loved picking strawberries and making the best strawberry jam ever. She cooked Sunday dinners and always had a delicious dessert. She was a wonderful example of God’s love here on earth. Billie will be remembered for her kindness, sweet spirit, and love for her family, friends, and others. Her sense of humor was contagious and we spent a lot of time laughing together. We know that heaven is sweeter now that she has gone home.
The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff of Good Samaritan Hospice for the care and respect shown to Billie and to our family at this time. We are so grateful for the time at home that we were able to care for her.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 30, 2019 from 6-8 p.m. at Horne Funeral Home. The Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Friday, May 31, 2019 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Kenneth Wells officiating. Interment will follow at Hall’s Cemetery in Elliston.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Joy Ranch Children’s Home in Hillsville, VA, or Bible Baptist Church in Christiansburg.