Smith, Basilka B. C. 1950-2025 St. Joseph, Mo.

Basilka Billie Catherine Smith, 74, of St. Joseph, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. She was at home and surrounded by her family when she passed. She was born Dec. 30, 1950, in St. Joseph.

She graduated from Benton High School. She was a member of new life Bible Church. She worked as a respiratory therapist for Methodist medical center, in St. Joseph. She was a house manager for Family Guidance in St Joseph. She also worked at the Milky way Group home, in Livingston, Montana, where she and her husband resided and managed the Livingston Camp Ground. She lived in Livingston with her beloved husband for 13 years before moving back to her hometown of St. Josephafter her husband’s passing in 2013.

Billie enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, hiking, and camping. She had a strong passion for the mountains and wildlife. She also loved spending time with her family and friends.

She was proceeded in death by her husband, Lester “George” Smith; parents, Donald and Catherine Wilson; sister, Donna Alvarez; one granddaughter, Denice Adams; two great- grandsons, Cole Ferris, Josey Hinten; and a great- granddaughter, Jordyn Palmer.

She is survived by her son, Ben Smith, and her beloved dog, Ruger, of the home; her daughters, Buffie Reiley and Beckie Reiley, of St. Joseph; stepchildren, Bobbie Smith, of St Joseph, and Mike Smith, of Livingston, Montana; brother, Mark Wilson, of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Amber, Laci, Jude, River, Clyde, Tony, Jesse, Bethany, Danny, Mikey, Michelle and Damian; 26 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services under the care of Rupps Funeral Home at a later date.

Online condolences and obituary at www.ruppfuneralhome.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.