Billie Lou Swanson passed away unexpectedly on April 19, 2005. She was born on August 31, 1941, in San Antonio, Texas to Dorothy Lou and William A. Heller. She attended Kansas State University and the University of Michigan, and was an active Pi Beta Phi member and President of her chapter.

Wherever she lived, she was actively involved in her community. While living in McAllen, Texas, she continued to be involved with Pi Beta Phi, and also started the McAllen Literacy Program, with over five hundred graduates while she was there. She also served on the Planning Commission and as an Officer with Zonta International. Living in New Braunfels for the past 4 years, she was involved with the New Braunfels Presbyterian Church, the Republican Women, and the New Braunfels Friends of the Library.

Billie will always be remembered for her laughter and cheer, courage, sense of humor, and her loyalty to her family and friends.

Survivors include her father, William A. Heller of New Braunfels, and her two sons: Michael R. Swanson and wife Cathy, of New Braunfels; and William R. Heller and wife Jennifer, of Houston. She is also survived by her five grandchildren: Jonathan and Elizabeth Swanson; and Drew, Katie, and Meg Heller.