Patricia Billock

When looking back on the life of Patricia Billock, it is easy to see both her unyielding strength and her unwavering dedication to her family. She was always willing to go above and beyond to care for others, and she faced challenges with a spirit of fierce determination. Nothing brought Patricia greater joy than spending time with her loved ones, no matter how simple the moments. Her tender heart allowed her to touch the lives of countless others in meaningful ways. Deeply loved, Patricia will be forever cherished by those who knew her best.

The late 1930s were a tumultuous time for the United States and the rest of the world. The Great Depression still hung over the country, and families had to work hard to make ends meet. Meanwhile, tensions surrounding WWII were quickly reaching a boiling point while those in the U.S. watched with held breath. It was on March 9, 1938, that Clarence and Stella (Slovinski) Blair of Grand Rapids, Michigan, celebrated the birth of their daughter as Patricia Ann made her entrance into the world.

Growing up, Patricia was a typical girl of her generation. She was raised in the family home alongside her two younger brothers, Kenny and Clarence. From a young age, Patricia enjoyed roller skating. She attended local schools, including Union High School, and worked her first jobs at the Pantlind Hotel and the local florist shop.

Exciting changes were on the horizon for Patricia as she met the young man who would soon become her husband. His name was Roger Billock, and the two first met as teenagers. Roger followed the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army, serving from 1956 to 1959. Their relationship flourished as Patricia and Roger fell deeper and deeper in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, they were married in a small ceremony surrounded by friends and family on November 20, 1959. The newlyweds then lived in an apartment on Davis Street and an apartment on McReynolds Avenue before settling down into their longtime home on Gaynor Avenue.

Of all the things Patricia loved in life, she treasured her family above all else. She and Roger were overjoyed to welcome their three children, Kathy, Steve, and Dave, into their hearts and home. Patricia thrived in her roles as a homemaker and mother. She took great pride in keeping her house clean and preparing hearty, home cooked meals for her family. Patricia always made sure her household ran smoothly and that everyone was provided for. Even when Roger would start his day at 3 A.M. for work, she would be up to make breakfast for him and see him out the door. As her children grew up and started families of their own, Patricia happily welcomed her son-in law and daughters-in-law into her life. She was thrilled to become a grandmother and even a great-grandmother. Patricia adored her grandchildren and loved to make each one feel special. She always considered herself blessed to watch her family grow to include so many loved ones.

Never one to sit still for long, Patricia pursued many hobbies to stay busy in her free time. Cooking was one of her love languages, and she made sure no one left the table hungry. Patricia enjoyed spending time outside and watching the birds from her porch. She liked to play Michigan Rummy, and holidays were always spent with family. Patricia loved crocheting. Over the years, she made countless afghans, dolls, placemats, Christmas ornaments, towels, and so much more. Patricia would often enter craft shows and sold thousands of her “scrubbies.” Her favorite shows included The Days of Our Lives, The Doctors, and Another World. Patricia took excellent care of her beloved dogs and birds. More than anything, she liked to pass her time at home with Roger, the greatest love of her life.

As family and friends will certainly agree, Patricia Billock truly understood the secret to living each day to the very fullest. She was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Patricia was loved by all who knew her. Her primary focus in life was building deep and personal relationships with those around her, and she poured her heart and soul into caring for all. Though she will be dearly missed, Patricia leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps.

Patricia Ann Billock, age 86, passed away peacefully at home on December 7, 2024. Patricia was born March 9, 1938 in Grand Rapids to the late Clarence Blair and Stella (Slovinski) Blair. She was also preceded in death by her grandson, Caleb Billock; and her brother, Kenny Blair. On November 20, 1959 Patricia married Roger Billock. Her husband of 65 years survives as do their children, Kathleen (Dale) Zylstra, Steven (Bonnie) Billock, David (Susan) Billock; grandchildren, Jason (Becky) Humes, Kristine (Kevin) Bowen, Steven (Megan) Billock II, Bethany (Kristopher) Banks, Chelsea (David) Thomas, Aubrey (Shane) Stephens, Tanner Billock, Landon (Maddie) Billock, Jennifer (Howard) York; 18 great grandchildren; and her brother, Clarence (Judy) Blair. Patricia loved being a wife, mother and grandmother and will be sorely missed in all of their lives. A funeral service will be held December 11, 2024 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes, Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW, where friends may visit with family beginning at 10 AM. Interment will be in Rosedale Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to American Macular Degeneration Foundation.