Billie Jean Whitehead

Billie Jean Whitehead, 90, of Des Moines, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Accura HealthCare of Carlisle.

Billie Jean was born in Winterset, Iowa, on June 9, 1936, to Everett Leland and Sylvia (Barnett) Williams. She grew up in Winterset, graduating from Winterset High School with the class of 1955. On May 31, 1959, she was united in marriage to Teddy Whitehead at the Methodist Church in Lorimor. Together, they made their home and family life, welcoming their son, Leland Todd Whitehead, on May 13, 1963.

Throughout her professional life, Billie Jean managed loans and titles for Metro Ford and later served at Norwest Bank, overseeing safe deposit boxes and personal banking.

Outside of work, Billie Jean had a deep love for the outdoors. She cherished family camping trips, riding bicycles, and spending hours tending to her yard. She took great pride in her lawn and flower beds and it showed. She loved sitting outside in the warm sunshine, sharing stories, and visiting with her neighbors. Above all else, Billie Jean adored her grandchildren, Casi and Luca, who brought immense joy and brightness to her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Everett Williams (1992) and Sylvia Williams (1997), her husband, Teddy (2012); and her sister, Janice Wildin (2021).

Billie Jean is survived by her loving son, Leland Todd Whitehead; her sister, Charlotte Davis; and her cherished grandchildren, Casi Whitehead and Luca Whitehead; along with extended family and dear friends.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel. A funeral service will follow at 1:30 p.m. Burial will take place in Lorimor Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family to support animal rescue causes close to Billie Jean’s heart.