Billie Nash Smelley

Billie Nash Smelley, a resident of Montgomery, Texas passed away on March 27, 2026, at the age of 96, surrounded by family members. She was born May 2, 1929 in Corrigan, Texas. Billie (known to many as "Mama Bill") was a strong, outgoing, and accomplished lady. She married her beloved spouse of 58 years, Alton B. Smelley, as soon as he returned from World War II. Alton then went to work at Hughes Tool Company in Houston, where he spent his entire career. In later years, they explored much of the United States and Canada in various RVs and took a memorable trip to Australia and New Zealand. Billie was a loving mother and grandmother and faithful friend to many. During her work career, she served as church secretary or pastor's secretary at several churches including Bellaire Baptist and College Park Baptist. Her many interests and talents included painting landscapes and wildlife, doll making, quilting, and cooking. She was a long time member Benui Baptist Church in Montgomery and a devoted student of the Bible. She was also a member of the April Sound Country Club, its Ladies Association, and various groups.

She is survived by her daughter Olivia and husband James Holland, son James Smelley and wife Toni, son William Smelley and wife Debbie; grandson Jason Smelley, wife Kimberly and son Collin; grandson Jonathan Smelley and son Jacob; granddaughter Amanda Jones, husband Ty, daughter Chloe and son Zachary; and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents James Otis Nash and Coleta Stovall Nash, her husband Alton, her son Gary Smelley, and her grandson Van Holland. Visitation will be held in the Chapel of Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Willis, Texas from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 4, 2026. The Funeral Service will be held in the same chapel at 11:00 AM on April 4, 2026 with Rev. John C. Lockwood officiating. Interment will be in the Smith Memorial Park Cemetery adjoining Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home, with a reception following.