Billie Jean Coates Smith

Billie Jean Coates Smith, of Hammond, Louisiana, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the age of 89. She was born on April 16, 1935, in Independence, Louisiana, the daughter of the late Arthur Ellis Coates and Evelyn Stewart Coates. A proud graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University, Billie Jean cherished her academic achievements and the role they played in her career. She dedicated over 30 years to the Tangipahoa School Board, where she served as a supervisor. Her commitment to education was evident through her innovative leadership in developing the Migrant Education Program, among many other initiatives and programs. Throughout her distinguished career, Billie Jean received numerous national awards, recognizing her dedication to educational improvement. Yet, despite her professional accomplishments, the most significant aspect of Billie Jean's life was her family. She took immense pride in her children and grandchildren, and her legacy will live on through the values she instilled in them. Billie Jean was committed to her faith and trust in the Lord, qualities which also served as a guiding light for her family and those around her. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her and she will be dearly missed.

Billie Jean is survived by her three children, Deborah Brunett (Tommy), Randy Smith (Tammy), and Kim Smith (Louisa); eight grandchildren, Brandi Hosch, Jason Vernon, Kirby Harter, Jesse Miller, Suzanne Smith, Brittany Smith, Candice Smith, and Chris Vicaro; sister, Shirley Holder; and numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Billie Jean was preceded in death by her brother, Valmond Coates, and granddaughter, Callie Jo Brunett.

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 2000 N. Morrison Blvd, Hammond, Louisiana 70401 on Thursday, March 6, 2025 from 9:30 am until 11:30 am, with a Funeral Service at 11:30 am, with her son Randy Smith officiating.

Interment will be held privately.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula. An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.