Billie Kessinger

Billie Eugene Kessinger, a vibrant 93-year-old resident of Tahlequah, left this world on February 26, 2025, surrounded by the love and memories he created during his remarkable life. Born on June 29, 1931, in Tahlequah to the late William Arthur Kessinger and Frances Eva (Young) Kessinger, Billie lived a life full of adventure, love, and cherished relationships.

In honor of Billie's legacy, a Funeral Service will be held on March 4, 2025, at 2:30 PM at Hart Funeral Home, where family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of this extraordinary man. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Tahlequah City Cemetery, where his spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him.

The family invites loved ones to join them for a public viewing to be held on March 3, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hart Funeral Home, providing a time to reminisce and share stories about Billie.

Billie is dearly missed by family and he is reunited with his beloved wife, Anna Marie (Hammer) Kessinger, as well as his brother, Walter "Son" Kessinger, and daughters Karen Battenfield, Shirley Copeland, and Janice Copeland in eternal peace. He is also preceded in death by his nephews, Bobby Webster and Don Webster.

Billie is survived by his loving children, Gail (Larry) Blevins, Verna McNeil and Richard Kessinger, as well as son-in-law Paul Battenfield. He leaves behind cherished nieces Kay Webster and Glenda Davis, nephew Jimmy Webster, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will forever carry on his legacy.

An avid hunter and fisherman, Billie found joy in mushroom and wild onion hunting. A talented woodworker, he delighted in whittling and hand-carving creations. His passion for music brought joy to gatherings with his guitar, and he often shared laughter while playing bingo. He served as a Chaplain in the Tahlequah Elks Lodge. Billie was well known as a Well Witcher, and witched wells all over the state for Webster Drilling. He was a blood donor and donated 49 pints of blood throughout the years and earned a gold star. Known for his joyful spirit, Billie had a nickname for everyone he loved and found great pleasure in savoring perch and ice cream. He was a dedicated attendee of Ole Country Church in Woodall.

As we gather to celebrate Billie's life, let us remember the laughter, love, and adventures he shared with us all. His spirit will forever warm our hearts and enrich our memories.