Fred W. Bilbo's Obituary
Fred Wofford Bilbo, 90, died May 2 in Amarillo, Texas. He was a warm, friendly, and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend that will be missed by many.
Fred was born November 9, 1933 in Long Beach, California to Velma and John Bilbo.
After his father was killed in an auto accident his mother relocated to West Texas to be closer to family. He played football at Midland High School and also at McMurry College (now University), earning a B.S. in Physical Education with minors in Biology and History in 1956. After graduation he taught middle school science and coached. While attending a teacher conference he met his future bride, Georgene Doyle, from McKinney. They were married 57 years before her death in 2015.
Fred enjoyed a 35-year career with SmithKline Pharmaceuticals in various positions including Sales Representative, Regional Medical Associate, and Senior Research Associate. Fred and Georgene resided in Richardson, Texas until his retirement. They were members of First United Methodist Church Richardson and later Fellowship Bible Church. They later moved to Hideaway Lake in East Texas and were able to enjoy 20 years with friends old and new, socializing, traveling and worshipping at Hideaway Lake Community Church, where Fred sang in the choir. Fred was a regular golf player at Hideaway, and the founder of the "Duffers" golf group, which continues today. He was a lifelong, avid photographer, always taking pictures of family, friends and travels. He participated in the Hideaway Art League and was always so proud when one of his photographs was displayed at the clubhouse or published in the community newspaper.
He loved popcorn, ice cream, and watching the Texas Rangers.
Survivors include daughters Becki Bean and husband Bart, Lori Davis and husband Gordon, Vicki Lawrence and husband Robert; grandchildren Alan Bean and wife Marie, Andy Bean and wife Samantha, Alissa Brewer and husband Justin, Audrey Stanley and husband Cole, Clark Poole, Claire Poole and Clint Poole; great-grandchildren James, Cohen, Olivia and Ivy Bean, Bennett and Adalynn Bean, and Clara Brewer; and his good friend Elaine Shults. The family is thankful for the wonderful caregivers at Manor Park in Midland, Park Central in Amarillo, and Hospice of the Southwest.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, May 8 at 2:00 p.m. at Restland Memorial Chapel, Dallas. In lieu of flowers the family requests that you please consider a memorial donation to Hideaway Lake Community Church.
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