Hallie Billmire

Hallie Billmire, age 98, of Monroe, MI passed away Friday, June 27, 2008 at Oakwood Commons in Dearborn, MI. She had been in declining health for 2 months. Hallie was born April 7, 1910 in Maybee, MI the daughter of the late Chris J. and Mabel (Kohn) Helser. Hallie was a 1926 graduate of Monroe High School. Hallie went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Michigan Normal College in 1948 and a Master of Arts Degree from Wayne State University in 1952. She did some post graduate work at the University of Michigan. On June 4, 1934 Hallie married Earl A. Billmire in Buffalo, NY. Sadly he preceded her in death on February 3, 1976. An educator for more than 43 years, Hallie was employed by Monroe Public Schools for 29 of those years retiring on August 9, 1974. She began her career as an elementary teacher in a one room school house. In 1952 Hallie was appointed principal of Darinton School and in 1954 She became the first principal of Riverside Elementary School from which she retired. Hallie was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church and an honorary member of the United Methodist Women. Hallie was a former director of Camp Fire Girls, a member of the Thrift Shop Association of Monroe, and was a life member of both the Michigan and the National Education Association. She enjoyed playing Bridge. Hallie is survived by 2 nephews; Larry C. and Deborah Helser of Holt, MI and Don J. (Susan) Helser of Monroe, MI. 3 great nephews Marshall, Christian J, and Christian J. Helser II a niece Adrianne Helser and 1 great great nephew Jordan Helser- Young. In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her sister Gladys Wolfe and 2 brothers Donald F. and Marshall H. Helser. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-8 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home where funeral services celebrating her life will be held on Monday, June 30, 2008 at 10:00 AM. The Rev, Evans Bentley pastor of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church will officiate. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be given to a charity of the donor's choice.