Billie Ann Allen Cantrell

Billie Ann Allen Cantrell, born on August 3, 1936, in Gaylesville, AL, to the late Sanford Edison Allen and Ora Catherine Callan Allen. Billie passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on August 17, 2024. A life marked by love, dedication, and faith, Billie Ann leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Billie Ann graduated from Gaylesville High School in 1953 and continued her education at Berry College, earning her degree in Education in 1957. She later earned her Master’s degree from Valdosta State University. It was during her time at Berry College that she met James T. Cantrell, the love of her life. The two were married in December 1957, embarking on a journey of love and partnership that spanned 65 wonderful years until James' passing.

Her passion for education led Billie Ann to begin her teaching career in Trion, GA, before moving to Thomasville, GA, in 1960. In 1970, she began her long tenure with the Thomas County School System, where she touched the lives of countless students as a dedicated teacher of 6th, 7th, and 8th grades at Chappell, Magnolia-Chappell, and Thomas County Middle School. Billie Ann retired in 1996 after a fulfilling career that left an indelible mark on her community.

A devoted member of Dawson Street Baptist Church, Billie Ann was a woman of deep faith. She served her church family by teaching GAs, Vacation Bible School, and Sunday School. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and enriching the lives of those around her.

Billie Ann had a zest for life that was evident in her love of traveling, a joy she shared with her family and friends. She found happiness in exploring new places and creating lasting memories with those she loved.

Billie Ann is survived by her beloved children: James (Gail) Cantrell, Cathy (Gary) Rehberg, Keith (Darlene) Cantrell, and Karen (Chris) Jones. She was a proud grandmother to Michael Hill, Jennifer Cantrell, Blake (Lauren) Cantrell, Brent Cantrell, Kacy (Ransom) Trueman, Cameron Jones, and Nicolas Cantrell, and a doting great-grandmother to Zachary Hill, Christian Hill, Michael Hill Jr., Logan Mitschele, Jackson Cantrell, River Cantrell, and Sara Callan Trueman, and nephew, Tracy (Angie) Allen. Billie Ann is also survived by four step-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, “Baby Angel”and brother, Pat Allen.

Funeral services will be held at Allen and Allen Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, August 24th, at 3 p.m. The service will be led by Bro. Lee Waller, with interment to follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens, Thomasville, GA. Pallbearers will include deacons from Dawson Street Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at 2 p.m. in the Allen and Allen Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Dawson Street Baptist Church in Billie Ann's honor, reflecting her lifelong commitment to her faith and community.

Billie Ann Allen Cantrell's life was a testament to love, faith, and service. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.