Billie Joyce Campbell

Billie Joyce Campbell, 91, a long-time resident of the Ocean Springs, MS, departed this life at her home Tuesday morning the 28^th of June surrounded by loved ones.

Born April 11, 1931 to Joe & Blanche Watson in Marston, MO, Billie attended preparatory school in New Madrid, MO receiving multiple awards including: Commercial (Typing – Local & State), Citizenship Award (Nominated by School Faculty), Representative Fashion Model, Daughters of the American Revolution Award, and most notably graduating Salutatorian of her class.

Billie was always a lady true to her values and encouraged by her parents, especially her mother. After graduating from high school, Billie was employed by the National Bell Telephone Company. When she tired of working at National Bell, Billie went to work with the FBI in St. Louis, MO. While there, she met her future husband, Edward Campbell. After working for the FBI, she was encouraged to apply for a position in the Pentagon for the Department of the Army. While there, a Colonel in the department referred her as a candidate for a position in the White House. She accepted a position as one of the secretaries for Mamie Eisenhower during the Dwight Eisenhower Administration. While working in this position, she attended many events held in the White House. One memorable social event stands out -   when she was introduced to President Eisenhower, he remarked, “So this is the Democrat from Missouri?”

Billie and Ed bounced around the U.S. for Ed’s career in the Air Force, ultimately landing at Keesler AFB allowing them to put down roots in Ocean Springs to raise their two boys, Bryan and Jefferson. Here she continued her government work at the office of Veterans Affairs. Billie enjoyed gardening their property on Marina Ave., piecing together the family tree, and selecting only the best produce at the Biloxi Farmer’s Market.

Billie was the embodiment of the family creed, “Campbells Never Quit!” She will always be remembered as courageous, steadfast, loyal in the face of prejudices and conflicts and always a LADY.

Billie was preceded in death by her husband, Edward; son, Bryan; and grandson, Christopher.

She is survived by her sister, Mona (John) Adkins; son, Jefferson (Marci) Campbell; daughter in-law, Melissa Campbell; grandchildren, Kristen (Sean) Moss, Michael Campbell, Jessica Campbell, Katie (Ry) Keel, Emily Shermer; and great-grandson, Bryson Moss.

A funeral service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 3, 2022 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs, MS. Friends may visit one hour prior. Burial will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Ocean Springs, MS.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Billie Campbell.