In Loving Memory of Bernard P Billings
October 20, 1924 - December 28, 2023
On October 20, 1924, Bernard P Billings was born into this world in Delta, Utah, welcomed by his devoted parents, Augustus Hyrum Billings and Myrtle Stanworth Billings. Raised on a farm, Bernard experienced the loss of his father to cancer at the tender age of eight, marking the beginning of challenging times for his family. His mother, Myrtle, worked diligently in a dairy wrapping butter to support the family. Young Bernard, resilient and hardworking, contributed by laboring on farms. He received his education at Delta Elementary and Delta High School, where he laid the foundation for his industrious life.
After high school, Bernard ventured into the mining industry, working in a lead mine. His path took a turn when he was drafted into the Navy Airforce during World War II, serving from September 11, 1943, to May 17, 1946. Bernard made his mark as a shooting instructor, honorably discharged as an Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class.
Returning to civilian life, Bernard resumed his work in mining, eventually establishing his own drilling and blasting business. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to operate this successful venture until his retirement at 65.
Bernard's personal life was equally rich and fulfilling. He met the love of his life, Ila Jean, at the Terrace Skating Rink, where both were passionate skaters. Bernard, known for his graceful dance moves on skates, married Ila in 1948 at Memory Grove and later solemnized their union in the Salt Lake City Temple on April 22, 1959. Together, they made their home in Murray, Utah, nurturing a family that grew to include four children—Paul, Shirley, Kevin, and Diana—14 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
An outdoors man at heart, Bernard relished hunting, fixing cars, and meticulously maintaining his yard. He imparted his love for the outdoors to his family, often spending summers at the lake, engaging in water skiing and boating adventures with his children and grandchildren.
Bernard's retirement years were marked by his passion for trap shooting. He spent countless hours in a trap shooting league, earning numerous awards and trophies. His involvement in the sport fostered deep friendships, particularly within the gun club community. Bernard's innovative spirit shone through in his hobby; he crafted BBs from melted tire weights for reloading shells, which he also traded or sold.
The passing of his beloved wife, Ila Jean, in January 2010, was a profound loss for Bernard. He continued to reside in their cherished Murray home until his peaceful passing on December 28, 2023.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Good Shepherd Hospice and their staff for their compassionate care and friendship during Bernard's final years.
Bernard's legacy of resilience, hard work, and love for family will forever be cherished and remembered by those who knew him.
A gathering will take place Friday January 5, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Larkin Sunset Gardens, located at 1950 E Dimple Dell Road in Sandy. Following the gathering a Graveside service will follow at 2:00 pm.
Those wishing to view the COMPLETE service via Zoom can click "Watch Service" or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/8CIiiHSYRv2JX3EBLhU-w6Dk30e3CJ9xtr95TZNVi7YkmnE-jhDj7H0KfYdKq7lx.gSwABzHkZeIjrmHE?startTime=1704488337000