Willie J. Billups

  RACINE – Willie James “Jamie” Billups, 62, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Friday, October 17, 2014.

   He was born in Racine on December 2, 1951, the son of the late Robert W. and Adell (nee: Freeman) Billups, Sr.  Jamie attended Washington Park High School.  He previously worked at American Motors. Most recently he worked as a licensed barber and cosmetologist.  Jamie was an avid C.B. operator known to many by his handle, “Little Player.”

   Jamie’s greatest joy was spending time with his family.

  Jamie is survived by his three sons, James (Taylor) Greer of Minneapolis, MN, Phalon Donte’ (Pamela) Higgenbottom and James (Natashia) Billups both of Racine; seven grandchildren, Donatellio Billups , Jana Greer, DeShanna Greer, Pierre Hale, Elijah Ettiene, Donovan Cook, Mikiisha Barker; great grandchildren, Phalon Hunter-Barker and Phazerian Barker-Trotter; great-great grandchild, Jaiciadh Hunter-Barker; brothers and sister, Robert (Patricia) Billups, Jr., Louis Clark Billups, Maydell (Greg) Williams all of Racine; special niece, Belinda Mullins; the mothers of his sons, Debra Greer, Peggy Higgentbottom and Cora Billups; special friends, Ernest Barkley and Gordy G.  He is further survived by a host of other relatives and friends.   In addition to his parents, Jamie was preceded in death by his brothers, Eddie, Billy Ray and David Billups; his sisters, Margaret Turner, Peggy Tittle; his niece, Leslie Billups, and his nephews, Brandon Billups and Dana Turner.

   Family and friends are invited to meet at St. Paul Baptist Church (1120 Grand Ave.) on Monday, October 27, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. for the celebration of his Homegoing with Bishop Lawrence L. Kirby officiating.  There will be a visitation in the church on Monday from 10-11 a.m.  His interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. 

   The family thanks the staff of the Albert House Apartments for the loving care and support they provided Jamie.