Obituary of Kenneth Billings, 88
Kenneth Billings.
Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 23, 2025.
– Kenneth “Ken” Wayne Billings passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. As he was called home, his beloved wife, Bonnie sang his favorite hymns ushering him into the arms of his Savior. He was 88.
Born June 16th, 1936 in Chickasha, Oklahoma to Walker and Ruby Billings as their beloved first born son. Ken attended Bakersfield High School & Bakersfield College. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Economics with a minor in Accounting from Fresno State University, & went on to complete his MBA in Finance with LaSalle University. In 1955 he married his high school sweetheart, Bonnie Jean Blakely. He was a loving & gracious son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, & great-grandfather, whose generosity and steadfast presence touched the lives of all who knew him.
He was a devoted family man, married to the love of his life Bonnie Jean. Together they built a beautiful life. They would have celebrated 70 wonderful years of marriage this June – a remarkable union marked by devotion, laughter, and an enduring partnership that weathered both joyful seasons and life’s trials, sustained by their steadfast faith in God and commitment to one another.
A man of integrity and hard-work, Ken began his career in finance. He started at the Bank of America in Bakersfield at the young age of 20. His deep-rooted passion for agriculture led him to a career with the Federal Land Bank, where he dedicated himself to supporting the farming community he so deeply admired. He also had the honor of advising Congress regarding Farming Production and assisted the Secretary of Agriculture. Though he eventually “retired” from his work in agriculture and banking, he continued to serve as Chief Financial Officer for the family business up until his passing.
Ken’s greatest treasures were found in faith, family and the simple blessings of life. He was a man of quiet wisdom, steady presence and unshakable belief in God’s promises.
Ken was proud to have built Bonnie the home of her dreams. On a serene, oak tree-lined property in the hills of Atascadero, they have shared 26 years together. The beautifully decorated home, and lovingly tended garden, reflect Bonnie’s touch and creative spirit. This brought Ken deep satisfaction and Joy, a place where family gathered, memories were made, and God’s blessings were felt in every season.
Ken is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Jean Billings, his sister Wanda, married to Joel Swisher. He leaves behind his cherished children: daughter Renee, married to Randy Lara, daughter Michelle Losey & son Greg Billings. He was a proud Papa to his granddaughters: Tonya, married to Dan Clenney; Sandy married to Robert Tapia; Nicole married to Travis Arburua; & Meghan married to Tanner Melson. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Mckenna, Kayden, & Carter Clenney; Dominic, Julianna, Alexander, & Jameson Arburua; & Marilyn Melson.
While Ken will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing he has entered into eternal rest and reunion with his parents Walker & Ruby, brother James, and other loved ones who have gone before him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him, and his faith-filled legacy will continue for generations to come.
Though our hearts are heavy, we will hold tight to the sweet memories-trips to the ice cream or frozen yogurt shop, and the familiar joy of stumbling upon his secret stashes of peanut M&Ms, turtle candies, tortilla chips or hidden cookies tucked away in the back of the freezer or a desk drawer in his home office. Nothing delighted him more than a bowl of Bonnie’s homemade ice cream, a simple pleasure that never failed to bring a twinkle to his eye. Ken’s gentle spirit and enduring sweet tooth brought simple joys to his family’s everyday life.
A Celebration of Ken’s life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Chapel of the Roses in Atascadero, California. Family and friends are invited to a viewing from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a closed casket service at 2:00 p.m. A reception with refreshments will take place immediately after the service. All who knew Ken are welcome to gather in his honor.
An additional reception for family and friends will be held on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 5 p.m., 7701 Kamloops Drive, Bakersfield, California 93309. Food & refreshments will be provided. Family and friends are welcome to join in celebrating Ken’s life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to your favorite ministry or charity.
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