Billie Jean Norvell, 80, of Galesburg, passed away at 8:31 p.m. Monday, March 31, 2025, at Allure of Lake Storey in Galesburg. She was born October 18, 1944 in Long Beach, California, the daughter of John William “Bill” and Rita Eileen (Winters) Coffey.
Left to cherish her memory are two daughters, Kelly Kimmitt of Galesburg and Melanie Price of East Peoria, Illinois; six grandchildren: Stormie, Kamen, Clayton, Kelsey, Shawna, and Savannah; seven great grandchildren: Jude, Thalia, Jaxon, Emersyn, Ailani, Aria, and McKinley; one brother, Harry (Judy) Coffey of Santa Rosa, California; and one sister, Margaret (Gary) Campbell of Foley, Alabama. She was preceded in death by her parents; and life partner, David Bradford.
Billie proudly worked as a correctional officer for the Knox County Sheriff’s Office for 17 years until her retirement in 2009. She was very well respected, always caring of others, and known to be a bit outspoken. Billie never met a stranger. She was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and liked bowling in her younger years. She enjoyed gardening, feeding squirrels, and spending time with her grandkids. Her greatest joy was her family, Billie loved them to the moon and back.
Cremation will be accorded. No services are planned at this time. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory in Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Keisha Cares. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
