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In Memory

Billie Leslie (Dunlap) - Class Of 1959 VIEW PROFILE

Billie Leslie (Dunlap)

Billie Leslie Dunlap, 80, of South Bend passed away at 5:04 a.m. Monday, December 27th, surrounded by her loving children. Billie was born July 10, 1941 in Ashland, KY to the late Daphne L. (Fultz) and Wade Hampton Leslie, Jr.  Billie had lived in South Bend since she was 5 years old.

On September 8, 1962 she married the love of her life, David E. Dunlap who preceded her in death, July 11, 2020. Billie is survived by her children, Deborah D. Shafer (James) of South Bend, David L. Dunlap, II (Daneen) of Naperville, IL and Leslie B. Henegar (Jeffrey) of Franklin, TN; 4 grandchildren, Allison Shafer, David (Mary) Shafer, D. Logan Dunlap III, and Cassandra Dunlap; and 1 great-grandchild, David Emmett Dunlap Shafer; sister, Joyce Linnett (Mark) of Martinez, CA; sister-in-law Dianne “Dinny” Sisley (Fred) of Burlington, NC;
brother-in-law, V. Baillie Dunlap (Jean) of Oklahoma City, OK and many loving nieces, nephews and her beloved dog, Hampton.

Billie’s brother, Wade Hampton Leslie III and nephew, Wade Hampton Leslie IV, preceded her in death.

First and foremost, Billie was a dedicated mother.  She always put the needs of others above her own, which was a true indication of a servant’s heart.  She treasured her children and family and embraced every moment with them. She had a vivacious personality and laugh that made anyone she was with feel comfortable and loved.

Billie was also an incredible business woman who had several businesses.  In the late 1960’s Billie opened a children’s clothing store, The Marionette Shoppe.  She operated The Marionette Shoppe until the mid 1970’s.  When her in-laws, Dr. and Mrs. D. Logan Dunlap celebrated their 40th anniversary in 1976, Billie offered to make the food and a new career was born.  Billie owned and operated Catering by Billie, Inc. for 25 years. Her daughter, Debbie joined her in the business in 1987 and her son, David joined in 1992. Many times her husband and daughter, Leslie were pulled in as well, making this a true family business.  Since Billie loved her family this is when she was the happiest, with everyone around.  The business grew into a prosperous, downtown lunch spot until Billie retired and sold the business in 2001. Upon retirement, Billie and Dave had many wonderful adventures while traveling throughout the U.S. When they would return from their adventures family would be entertained with stories of their escapades.

Billie was a graduate of South Bend Central High School and attended Indiana University.

Billie was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She battled multiple health issues over the last 2 years, which when she contracted Covid was a battle she could not win, although fully vaccinated and boostered.

A celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date due to the current COVID-19 Pandemic.

Memorial contributions in Billie’s name may be made to the South Bend Alumni Association, or Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. South Bend in lieu of flowers. Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Family and friends may leave email condolences at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

12/29/2021 JFC



Click here to see Billie's last Profile entry.