GRAFTON, W.Va. (WV News) — Margaret “Leanne” Bilbry, 89, of Grafton, peacefully departed to eternal rest on April 18, 2024.

She was born in Grafton on December 18, 1934, to Spurgeon “Pus” Summers and Edith Compton Summers.

Louise was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Harvey Bilbry, on June 14, 2014.

Louise graduated from Grafton High School, Class of 1952. During her school years, Louise, along with her sisters, worked at the Grafton Drive-In.

She was a faithful member of Haymond United Methodist Church, where she met Bill in 1950. They exchanged vows in Cumberland, MD on November 22, 1951. For three years, they resided in the Honeymoon cabin on Happy Acres. Later, they moved to Cherry Run, where they raised their three daughters and two sons.

Louise and Bill were avid remodelers and builders, crafting homes in Grafton, Hatteras Island, NC, and Elizabeth City, NC. In their retirement, they divided their time between Hatteras Island and Elizabeth City, attending local Methodist churches.

Louise cherished her role as a homemaker, finding joy in sewing and crafting quilts. She was a dedicated member of her church choir and found solace in playing the piano.

Survived by her children: Pauline Farmer, Wanda Williams, and Terrell Bilbry, Louise leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is also survived by her daughter, J’abria Leggett, her grandchildren: Sakai Bilbry, Antasia Bilbry, Amber Bilbry, Antwon Florence, and her grandson, along with a host of great nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Louise was preceded in death by her grandson, Joseph Andrew Closson, and her sister, Yvonne Sweetnich.

Special thanks to her caregivers, Sherry Sellers and family, Ronda Stine, Judy Boyce, and the WVU Hospice care team.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Haymond United Methodist Church C/O Carolyn Hamilton 644 White Day Rd. Grafton, WV 26354 or WVU Foundation, One Waterfront Place 7th Floor, P.O. Box 1650 Morgantown WV 26507 Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Fund; Fund #2V787

“Think of all the beauty still left behind you and be happy.” — Anne Frank

The family will honor Louise’s life and greet friends at Bartlett Funeral Home, 202 McGraw Ave., Grafton, WV, on Sunday, April 27, 2024, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and on Monday, April 28, 2024, from 9 a.m. until noon, followed by the funeral service officiated by Dr. Michael Richards and Pam Gallagher. Interment will follow at the West Virginia National Cemetery.

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