Obituary of Mary Ann Billings

MaryAnn Billings

On April 22, 1944, the Lord carried a tiny little girl, MaryAnn, into the arms of Richard and Opal Thonney.  She was raised in Dixie, WA, with her two older brothers, Dan and Steve.  Her growing up years were our story book delight.  It was a simple time, full of family, friends, work and play.  She asked and trusted the Lord for her mate. She knew it was Neal on the very first date!  Six weeks later, on Aug. 13, 1966, their fifth time together, they were standing  at the alter. Their marriage was beautiful and blessed by the Lord. Their love for one another was seen by all as we observed their devotion and commitment to one another.

They made their first home in Tacoma, where West was born.  After a move to Walla Walla, Charity and Natalie completed the family.  With the Lord as the bus driver, they made stops at Oak Harbor,  Juanita, Issaquah, Puyallup, and Graham.  Each move had it’s obstacles, but MaryAnn paved the way with her good attitude, helpful heart and faithful service.  

Her family knew her as their enthusiastic cheerleader- always an advocate, always a hoot.  Her friends knew her as a trustworthy companion - always steady, always caring. She welcomed the ringing of the phone.  Laughter was her favorite medicine, and all the comfort she offered came from solid faith in her Lord Jesus. She loved to sit and empathize with the broken hearted.  She had the gift of feeling how you felt. Gentle and kind, she would never hurt a living soul.

We’ve been so comforted by these scripture that Mom was clinging to before her surgery.  

Psalms 139:16

         Your eyes have seen my unformed  substance; and in Your book were all written the               

         days that were ordained for me, when as yet there was not one of them.

Hebrews 13:6

So that we confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid.  What will man do to me?

Psalm 94:19

        When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul.

MaryAnn was standing solidly on God’s sovereignty.  We saw the unmistakable hand of God as we watched Him answer every prayer completely and beautifully. He gave us assurance of His control every step of the way, so that we could rest in His wonderful will for our dear MaryAnn. When He knew it was time, the Good Shepherd came and carried her home. 

April 29th, 2022                                    

She was much loved and cherished, and she will be greatly missed.

We look forward to rejoicing with her soon.

She is survived by her husband Neal, Son West, daughters Charity & Natalie, brother Steve and 11 grandchildren.