Billie Jean "Jeannie" Carr

Billie Jean "Jeannie" Carr, 93, of Sullivan, Missouri, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2024, in her hometown of Sullivan, Missouri.

Born on November 12, 1930, to Howard and Loise (Crisco) Mason, Jeannie's early years were spent in the Sullivan School District, where she graduated from Sullivan High School in 1948. She then ventured to Monet Junior College, furthering her education and preparing her for the adventures ahead. As a young woman, Jeannie's voice graced the airwaves of a local Rolla, Missouri radio station, where she traveled with her church choir to share hymns and spiritual songs that touched many hearts.

After her time at Monet Junior College, Jeannie briefly taught in a one-room schoolhouse in Stanton, Missouri. However, her path took a turn when she accepted a position as a secretary at HouseGas. It was there she met Bill Carr, the man who would become her beloved husband. Bill, who frequented HouseGas, was smitten with Jeannie and laid on the charm. Their love blossomed, and they were united in marriage on December 2, 1950, at Sullivan First Baptist by Rev. L. H. Owens.

When Bill enlisted in the United States Navy and was stationed in New London, Connecticut, Jeannie, a farm girl at heart, bravely journeyed to New York City and caught a train to be with her sweetheart. The couple cherished their time in an apartment in New London during Bill's active duty service. Following his discharge, they returned to Sullivan and started their family, welcoming two children, Montie and Marsha. Jeannie embraced her role as a stay-at-home mother, raising their children with love and dedication.

Jeannie's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She served her church in various capacities, including music director, Sunday school teacher, organist, and choir member. Alongside her dear friends, Irene Ruble and Shirley Summers, she sang in a trio that recorded a tape at the Gaither Music Studios in Indiana, with all proceeds generously donated to their church's construction project.

Music was an integral part of Jeannie's life, but her talents did not end there. She was a phenomenal cook, with her desserts of all kinds being a particular favorite of Bill's, who fondly recalls never having a complaint about her cooking. Jeannie and Bill were faithful attendees of the First Baptist of Sullivan, where they were devoted members.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Jeannie adored her grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them. Her interests were diverse; she enjoyed sewing, quilting, traveling, and shopping with her closest girlfriends. She was a regular at musicals at the Fabulous Fox and Muny Theaters and often accompanied Bill on his business trips. An avid reader, Jeannie could frequently be found behind the pages of the Saint Louis Post Dispatch, keeping up with current events. She will be sorely missed and loving remembered.

Jeannie is survived by her devoted husband of 73 years, William “Bill” Carr of Sullivan, Missouri; two loving children, Montie Carr and wife Debbie of Parker, Colorado and Marsha Johanning and husband Roger of Sullivan, Missouri; five grandchildren: Ryan Johanning and wife Kasilda, Mason Johanning and significant other Megan, Devon Schatz and husband Chuck, Jessie Kelb and husband Will and Jamie Jester and husband Clint; nine great granchildren: Auggie, Garrett, Paisley, Izzy, Elena, Clara, Owen, Tatum and Emmett; a sister, Cathy Whitworth and husband Bob and their son, Tom of Troy, Missouri; numerous other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Loise.

Funeral Services for Jeannie will be 11 AM, Thursday, January 11, 2024 at the First Baptist Church of Sullivan with Pastor Chester Lahmann officiating. Interment will follow at the IOOF Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation will be 9:30 AM – 11 AM, Thursday, January 11, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Sullivan prior to the funeral service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Sullivan.

Friends may send their onlince condolences to Jeannie’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.