Billie Louise Mulder's Obituary
Billie Louise Mulder, age 79, of Cincinnati, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Regency Care Center in Norwalk, Iowa, while under the compassionate care of hospice.
Born on October 8, 1946, in Cincinnati, Iowa, Billie was the daughter of William and Sylvia (Walker) O'Donnell. Throughout her life, she embraced every opportunity to work hard, care for others, and create a welcoming home for those she loved.
Billie's work ethic was evident in the many hats she wore over the years. She served communities through her work at the post offices in Ottumwa and Bloomfield, tended bar at the Eagles where she made many lasting friendships, and worked for Rubbermaid in Centerville and Caterpillar in the Quad Cities. She also delivered the Ottumwa Courier on her paper route, cared for residents at Bristol Manor in Unionville and Fulton, Missouri, operated an in-home daycare where she lovingly cared for children, and dedicated herself to being a homemaker. No matter the job, Billie poured her heart into it, believing that honest work and caring for others were among life's greatest callings.
Billie had a servant's heart and was happiest when she could lend a helping hand. Whether offering support to a friend, caring for children and residents, or simply being there for someone in need, she found joy in making life a little brighter for others. Her generosity and compassion left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Above all else, Billie's greatest treasures were her family, especially her grandchildren. She cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, creating memories through family gatherings, shared meals, and everyday moments filled with laughter. She loved opening her home to those she loved, whether for holidays, backyard cookouts, or an impromptu visit. She loved to quilt and tend to her garden as well and Billie had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, no one ever left her table hungry.
Billie will be remembered for her generous heart, resilient spirit, unwavering devotion to her family, and the kindness she freely shared with others. Her legacy lives on in the countless memories made around her table, the many lives she touched through her compassion, and the love she poured into her children and grandchildren. Though her presence will be deeply missed, the warmth and generosity she brought into the lives of others will continue to be cherished for years to come.
Those left to cherish Billie's memory are her children, William Starr, Denise Banks Thomas (Matt Thomas), Norma (George III) Grimm; six grandchildren, Taylor Stadler, Thaddeus Thomas, Kile Starr, Amber Lynn Starr, GW Grimm IV, and Brodie Grimm; her siblings, Patsy (Vince) Dudenhoeffer, Jerry (Suzanne) O'Donnell, Mike O'Donnell, Darla (Bruce) Fuller; as well as several great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.
Billie was preceded in death by her parents, William and Sylvia O'Donnell; and her sister, Jean Babb.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00AM, Friday, July 24, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville with Larry Bettis officiating. Burial will follow the service at Eaton Cemetery, Unionville, IA. Visitation will take place Thursday, July 24, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville with the family greeting friends from 5:00PM-7:00PM. Memorials may be made to Norma Grimm, to be used toward final expenses, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Mulder Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at https://www.thomasfh.com <http://www.thomasfh.com> or https://www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome <http://www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome>.
To view the livestream of Billie's service, please click the link below or visit: https://my.gather.app/remember/billie-mulder
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