Billie Loraine Zernial, 78, of Dayton, Texas, passed away on October 4, 2025.
Born on February 1, 1947, to William and Syble Shaw Echols, Billie was raised with strong values and a deep love for family. She graduated from North Shore High School and made her home in Baytown before settling in Dayton, where she lived for the past 45 years.
Billie was a faithful member of Old River Assembly of God Church and was well-known in the community for her long-standing service with Dayton ISD, where she worked in food service for 35 years until her retirement in 2018. Her skills in the kitchen were unmatched, and she continued to bless her family with her cooking long after retirement.
A proud Dayton Bronco fan, Billie rarely missed a chance to support her local team. She was devoted to her family and loved being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Billie was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Thomas R. Zernial Sr.; her sister, Carolyn Ann Dean; her son, William Patton Zernial; and her grandson, Christopher Layne Connelly.
She is survived by her children: Thomas R. Zernial Jr. and wife Annette, Benjamin Brett Zernial and wife Becky Beard, Randall Aaron Zernial, and Linda Janell Zernial Robinson and husband Ken. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Ashley Rachelle Ryan and husband Sean, Zachary Thomas Zernial and wife Eleanor, Cassie Connelly, Kaleb Robinson, Timmy Zernial and wife Jennifer, Jordan Zernial, Sabrina Zernial, Amber Smith, and Mikey Smith, along with numerous great-grandchildren who will carry on her legacy.
At this time, no services are planned.
Billie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.