Billie B Wilson

Billie B Wilson, 86, of Independence, MO, passed away on Monday, January 7, 2019 at her home. She was a physical education teacher and coach at William Chrisman High School from 1956-1990. She was instrumental in promoting girls’ sports and in 1974 she coached the first Title IX women sports. Coach Wilson coached all Lady Bears sports, leading her volleyball team to two state championships (1981 and 83). In 2004 she was voted as one of the top 25 coaches of all time in Eastern Jackson County, placing eighth and was the only woman on the list. In her personal life, she was an avid fisherwoman and boat enthusiast. She was a natural athlete and excelled in many sports. She was deeply committed to her family and enjoyed all family activities. Billie Wilson went to meet her mother and father, brother-in-law, nephew and great-nephew on January 7, 2019. She leaves her sister, Jean Ragan of the home, nieces Linda Gray (Jim), Kathy Moore (Ron), nephews Jim Ragan (Sue) and Gary Ragan (Sandy), nine great-nieces and nephews, Greg Martin (Kerri), Annie Martin (Brian), Jeff Moore (Mindy), Tim Moore (Stephanie), Ryan Ragan (Courtney), Zachary Gray (Whitney), Andrew Gray (Sarah), James Ragan, and Sarah Ragan and eleven great, great nieces and nephews, Colyn Brackhahn, Cameron Pickett, Meghan Pickett, Sophie Martin, Maddie Martin, Liz Gudde, Ellie Martin, Tom Martin, Jr., Alina Rohde, Lexi Gray, and Liam Gray. Visitation will be from 2:00 – 3:30 pm, Friday the 11th at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E 39th, Independence, MO 64055, followed by graveside services at Green Lawn Cemetery, 8251 Hillcrest Road, KC, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to the Coach Billie Wilson Memorial Scholarship in care of the Independence School District Foundation, 201 N Forest Ave, Independence, MO 64050.