Billie Arlene Thompson

Billie Arlene (Barkley) Thompson, 93, passed away January 18, 2024, in Lubbock, TX. She was born November 29, 1930, to Carlos and Alice (Gamble) Barkley, in Sweetwater (Fisher County), TX. Billie graduated from Slaton high school in 1948; she went on to earn her license as a hairdresser & stylist from Jesse Lee’s beauty school; graduating the top of her class. Billie married Larry Kent Thompson, June 12, 1972, to whom she was a loving wife to Kent for almost 52 years. Billie was a life-long resident of Lubbock where she ran a successful beauty salon for over 50 years.   

Billie enjoyed her role as a homemaker, business owner, great cook, and dancing expert. She was known for her gentleness, many talents, and great love for serving others. Most of all, Billie loved the Lord and believed deeply in Jesus, and was member of Quaker Avenue Church of Christ.

Billie was preceded in death by a daughter, Venus Ruth, her parents, Carlos and Alice Barkley, and two sisters, Norma Barkley and Betty Barkley. Those left to cherish her many memories are her husband, Larry Kent Thompson, daughters Carlene Shaw and Donna (Scott) Bashrum, grandchildren, David (Tracy) Shaw, Summer (Dana) Palmer, Bryan Bashrum, Brelyn Bashrum and Brett Bashrum, and great granddaughters, Ava and Audri Shaw.

The family of Billie Arlene Thompson will honor and celebrate her life with a funeral service and celebration of life at 2:00PM, Saturday, January 27, 2024, at The Venue, Combest Family Funeral Home, 2202 Broadway (the service will be live streamed for those not able to come to the service), with David Langford officiating; a reception will follow the celebration. A burial will be conducted at O’Donnell Cemetery, Monday, January 29, 2024, at 2:00PM. Arrangements were entrusted to Combest Family Funeral Homes and Crematory.