Billie M. Meyer

Billie M. Meyer, 94, life-long resident of the Manito community, passed away on Saturday, February 24, 2024 surrounded by her family and loved ones. Billie was born on July 31, 1929 in Pekin Hospital to Dewey and Frances (Smith) Risen. She married Wayne E. Meyer on March 7, 1948 at Manito UMC.

Billie is survived by her children, Penny Baker of Shoreview, Minnesota, JoAnn (Bill) Smith of Marion, Kentucky, Jeanie (Barry) Spraggs of Manito, and Jim (Mary) Meyer of Naples, Florida; 7 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 66 years, Wayne, her sisters, Phyllis (Dan) Woiwode, Patty (Bob) Robinson, and Joy (Lee) Kreiling, and grandsons, Shane Barry Spraggs and Rob C. Ragland.
Billie attended Manito Community Schools and graduated from Manito High School in 1947. She was a farm wife, mother, church member, and community volunteer…her life revolved around her family, her church, and her community for her entire life. In 2010, Billie and Wayne were nominated by the Manito community as selected as Citizens of the Year and served as Grand Marshalls of that year’s Popcorn Festival for their lifelong contributions to their community. Billie was actively involved in Manito Historical Society, Manito on the Move, Sesquicentennial, served on the Village Zoning Board of Appeals and in UMW projects, bake sales, and meals.
Funeral services will be Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Manito Community Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Meadow Lawn Cemetery.
Memorials in Billie’s honor may be made to Manito Community UMC or Paulette’s Activity Fund at the Lodge of Manito.
Maas-Hurley Funeral Home in Manito is in charge of arrangements.