James Billings

James Billings, of Montevideo, died Friday, March 25, 2022 at Johnson Memorial Care Center in Dawson, MN at the age of 97.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 1, 2022 at 1:30 PM at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Montevideo.  Pastor Donald S. McKee will officiate and burial will be in Sunset Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.

Arrangements are with Anderson - TeBeest Funeral Home of Montevideo.

James Harry Billings was born March 3, 1925 in Rosewood Township to John and Katherine (Christensen) Billings.  He was baptized and confirmed into the Christian faith.  James attended country school in Rosewood Township, he then helped his brother driving gravel truck. He was united in marriage to Jean Lois Ward on October 14, 1943 in Milbank, SD. James enlisted in United States Marines in 1943 and served his country fighting in World War II.  After his honorable discharge he returned home and worked for the Milwaukee Railroad where he spent over 40 years. James and Jean made their home in Montevideo and to this union five children were born.  After Jean’s passing in 2001, James met Pat Blom and shared 19 years with her.

James enjoyed traveling and spent many years wintering in Mesa, AZ.  He was a jack of all trades and was willing to attempt to fix anything.  James was frequent customer at Trailways Café, where he spent much of his time for breakfast and lunch.  Most of all he loved spending time with his family and close friends, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by four children: Judy (Don) Fairchild of Montevideo, Jo Meier of Lake Benton, MN, John (Claudia) Billings of Neosho, MO and Judd Billings of St. Michael, MN; 12 Grandchildren: Jim Fairchild, Mike (Darci) Fairchild, Allison (Jack) Neilson, Chris (Theresa) Meier, Dan (Melinda) Meier, Jen (Mike) Bose, Andrea (Jeff) Jenks, Dereck (Breanna) Olson, Tia (Scott) Elshere, Katie Billings, Cole Billings, Kari Billings; 25 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Pat Blom of Montevideo. Sisters-in-law: Peggy (James) Haugen of Milan, MN and Joan (John) Swanson of Estherville, IA. As well as a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; daughter Jazell Olson, brother Kenny Billings, sister Florence Olson, son-in-law David Olson.