Billie passed away peacefully in her sleep after a brief illness, surrounded by members of her loving family.
Billie was born on Coronado Island, California to Merle Mitchel and Grace (Heiny) Mitchel, shortly thereafter moving to Arvada, Colorado. Surviving family members include husband Gordon Switzer of Modesto, CA, daughters Alana Croyle of Modesto, CA, Renee Switzer of Seattle, WA and sister Sandra Royer of Gilbert, AZ. Preceding Billie in death, was grandson Isaac Croyle.
Billie attended McPherson College in Kansas, where she met and married Gordon. After farming for a few years in Colorado, they moved to Modesto, CA. Billie graduated from LaVerne College with a degree in early childhood education. She worked with Head Start and opened the first infant and toddler care center for Modesto City Schools. Billie continued working for Modesto City schools, transitioning to teaching K,1 & 2 for 36 years. Her service to the community included, working on the board of Therapeutic Homes (now Sierra Vista Child and Family Services) and contributing to ground-breaking care for children through Church of the Brethren, Children’s Disaster Services.
Billie was gregarious and lived her life out loud, she never met a stranger. Her thirst for life included attending and supporting the arts. For years she and a group of friends attended the Berkeley Repertory Theater. She was a Gallo Center regular, enjoying plays and musicals. Billie deeply loved the coast, working in her garden and sharing her love of literacy. Billie’s circle of friends and family love her and she loves them more!
In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in Billie’s honor to Heifer International or Society for Disabilities.
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