Billie Marie Chilson

Billie Marie Chilson June 8, 1941 – July 21, 2025 Billie Marie Chilson, 84, of Towanda, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on Monday, July 21, 2025. Born in Towanda and raised in Laceyville, Billie was the daughter of the late Lawrence and Marian Rosencrance. Billie fondly recalled her wonderful childhood in Laceyville, where she spent cherished days with her grandmothers, learning about her Irish heritage—a part of her identity she embraced throughout her life. She was a firm believer in the “luck of the Irish,” often seen wearing her favorite color, green. Billie held deep affection for her parents and her brothers, especially her surviving brother Barry, and spoke often of the fun memories they created together. After graduating from Wyalusing Valley High School in 1959, Billie met and married the love of her life, LeRoy Chilson, on April 8, 1961. Their marriage was a true love story, marked by deep devotion, partnership, and joy for 64 incredible years. Together, they built a life full of love and laughter, raising four children and eventually welcoming grandchildren and great-grandchildren into their growing family. In 1969, Billie and LeRoy opened “LeRoy’s,” a sub shop that would become a cornerstone of the community, serving Towanda and the surrounding areas for over 40 years. It was more than a business; it was a gathering place, a place of happiness, friendship, family and famously delicious “special sauce.” Billie was more than a co-owner; she was a listener, a counselor, and a friend to anyone who walked through the door. She was the true heart and soul of the restaurant. The husband-and-wife duo never slowed down as they continued their “sauce business” after selling LeRoy’s sub shop in the late 1990’s. Side by side, LeRoy and Billie made, bottled, labeled, and delivered their signature sauce to local businesses for many years, sharing their love of food and community with each batch. Not only was Billie a businesswoman working alongside her husband, but in 1973, she became the first woman to serve on the Towanda Borough Council, where she dedicated eight years to improving her community and breaking barriers for women in leadership. Billie loved reading, especially visits to Barnes & Noble to pick out a new book (or two). Beyond reading, Billie’s true passion was her family. She never missed a special event or life milestone. She particularly enjoyed going to her grandchildren’s sporting events and would always be the first one there to get “her lucky seat.” She cherished her trips to Erie, family gatherings, baking, and nightly car rides with LeRoy to enjoy the scenery. Her home was always open and her heart always welcoming. Billie was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Marian Rosencrance; brother and sister-in-law, Juby and Sally Rosencrance; nephews, Pete, Patrick, and Larry Rosencrance; aunt, Marie Foote; sister-in-law, Peggy Rosencrance; father- and mother-in-law, Harry and Irene Chilson; brothers-in-law, James, LaRue, Harry, and Richard Chilson; and her granddaughter, Amelia Chilson. She is survived by her devoted husband, LeRoy Chilson; brother, Barry Rosencrance of Asheville, NC; children: Linda Chilson of Lake Wylie, SC; Barbi (Lew) Elliott of Towanda, PA; Brenda (Jim) Roberts of Towanda, PA; and LeRoy (Lisa) Chilson II of Erie, PA; grandchildren: Megan Fairchild of Athens, PA; Mazie (Sean) Underwood of Lake Wylie, SC; Kasey Elliott of Towanda, PA; Darcy (T) Thompson of Wysox, PA; Mitchell Benjamin of Towanda, PA; Cassie (Nate) Smith of Ulster, PA; Alexis (Bob) Totleben of Erie, PA; LeRoy (Chelsey) Chilson III of Erie, PA; and Julie McGraw of Chambersburg, PA; along with several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; sister-in-law, Beverly Dunn, and dear family friend, Mike Sena. Although Billie was small in stature, she had the heart of a lion and a true fighting spirit. Her love, wisdom, and strength touched the lives of all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, community, and unwavering devotion to her family. Visiting hours will be on Saturday, July 26th from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Maryott-Bowen Funeral Home in Towanda, PA with a celebration of Billie’s life beginning at 5:15 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions in Billie’s name be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital by going online to www.stjude.org or to the Towanda Public Library, 104 Main Street, Towanda, PA. Memories and condolences may be expressed by visiting www.bowenfuneralhomes.com.

Billie Marie Chilson

June 8, 1941 - July 21, 2025

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Billie Marie Chilson

June 8, 1941 - July 21, 2025

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

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About Us

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Grief & Healing

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