Billy R. Bloomer

Danville- Billy R. Bloomer, 81, of Danville passed away at 8:59 PM at his home on July 18, 2012. He was born on March 6, 1931 in Mena, AR to Leo K. and Sallie Selvidge Bloomer. He married Billie Lee Edwards Trexler in 1953. Following their divorce, Billy married Lila K. Martin Bloomer on December 19, 1969 in Pattonsburg, IL. She preceded him in death on April 3, 2012. He is survived by three sons, Patrick (Sophia) Bloomer, Bruce (Shannon) Bloomer, and Butch (Linda) Bloomer; four daughters, Kelly (Steven) Powell, Lori (George) Bolin, Denise (Patrick) Keegan, and Terry (Dennis) Rockow; 20 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, a niece, Pamela Hewett, and a sister, June B. Cook. Directly after graduating from Mena High School in 1948, Billy enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He began his duty as a career serviceman working as an aircraft mechanic. Billy was stationed all around the world, and before long had been assigned to working on helicopters instead of jets. His service soon placed him in HH-3E's, Jolly Green Rescue helicopters where he was involved in the rescue of four downed pilots. Billy's selfless acts and bravery also earned him a variety of service medals, including the Bronze Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Airman's Medal. After 25 years of service to his country, he continued his work for Britt Airways in Danville and then for Continental Express in Bloomington until his retirement in 1994. Billy was a member at the Bismarck First Church of Christ, the Jolly Green Association, and the Silver Wings Fraternity. He enjoyed cooking, bowling and traveling, and took advantage of his private pilot's license by flying often. Most of all, he loved spending time with family and friends. A service to celebrate the life of Billy Bloomer will be held at 9 AM on Thursday, July 26, 2012 at the Bismarck First Church of Christ. Burial will take place following at the Bell Plain Baptist Cemetery in Pattonsburg, IL. Visitation will be from 5-8 PM on Wednesday, July 25, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. Memorials may be made to Bismarck First Church of Christ or to the Jolly Green Association. Condolences may be left at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.