William Billeaud Obituary

Billeaud Sr., William Joseph

William J. "Bill" Billeaud, Sr., age 88, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Monday, February 17, 2025.

Bill ("Jo Jo") was born in 1936 and raised in Alexandria and Bunkie, Louisiana, to Joseph Billeaud and Williana (née Duffy), who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Richard "Dickie" Billeaud, and his sister, Katherine Piper.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Marie Louise "Wezie" (née Landreneau); his sister, Elizabeth "Betsy" Billeaud; his sons, Bill "Billy" Billeaud, Jr., and Mark (Susan) Billeaud; his beloved grandchildren, Madeline, Jack, Emma, and Sophia; and his nephews, Drs. Mike and John Lassere.

Bill earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Louisiana State University before beginning his career as an FBI agent, serving in Denver, Springfield, Illinois and St. Louis. He later pursued a law degree at Loyola University in New Orleans, graduating in 1972. Settling in the St. Louis area, he became a respected trial attorney, practicing law across several states and serving as President of the Madison County Bar Association.

In addition to his legal career, Bill proudly served in the U.S. Air Force Reserves as a Judge Advocate, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Bill had a passion for travel, exploring Central and South America, Europe, and destinations across the U.S. with family and friends. He cherished time spent visiting loved ones in St. Louis, Texas, and Louisiana, always eager to enjoy crawfish, crab and "pass a good time." A devoted sports fan, he cheered on the St. Louis Cardinals and Rams, the New Orleans Saints, and his alma mater, the LSU Tigers.

Bill had a large, infectious laugh and was a great storyteller. Bill's legacy of love, service, and adventure will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.