Billie Debes, a lifelong resident of Beaumont, died Sunday, July 27, at the age of 79.

She was born on May 14, 1935, to Carnation and Bill Chefchis. After graduating from French High School, she attended Lamar Tech. She then married Jim Debes, Jr. in 1956 and was married for 52 years. She was a faithful member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church. Billie worked at Baptist Hospital in the insurance department for 23 years. She was a member of St. Pat's Guild and served as a member of the Alter Guild at St. Mark's. Billie loved to garden, play bridge, host luncheons at her home, and loved her time with The Gin Rummy Group. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family. During her month long stay at the hospital all she could say was she wanted to go be with the Lord.

Survivors include her sister, Lou Thrash; brother, Tice Soffes, both of Beaumont; daughter, Pam Cheek of Orange; son, Jim Debes III and his wife, Sharon, of Beaumont; grandsons, Brian Debes of Beaumont; Nicholas Cheek and his wife, Kayla, of College Station; and Christopher Cheek of Buna; and many other nieces and nephews as far away as Greece.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jim Debes, Jr .; and one sister, Sophie Cutler.

A gathering of Mrs. Debes' family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 29, at Broussard's, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.

Her funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 30, at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 680 Calder, Beaumont, with her interment to follow at Magnolia Cemetery in Beaumont.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Mark's Episcopal Church Memorial Garden, 680 Calder, Beaumont, Texas 77701.