Billie Jean Vandervort

Billie Jean Vandervort, Age 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Baptist Health in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was born on January 27, 1939, in England, Arkansas, and was the beloved daughter of Loyd and Ruth (Stracener) Howe. 

Billie was a devoted member of Living Faith Missionary Baptist Church, where her faith guided her life and service to others. A dedicated homemaker, she took great pride in caring for her family and creating a warm, loving home. In her free time, Billie found joy in sewing, gardening, painting, reading, and cooking, often using these passions to bless her family and friends with handmade gifts, beautiful meals, and a welcoming home filled with love. 

Billie is survived by a daughter, Teresa Lynn and husband Aaron; a son, Travis Vandervort and wife Teresa; four grandchildren, Rachel Vansell and husband Seth, Dylan Vandervort and wife Krystal, Delaney Bradley and husband Landon, Danielle Scott and Husband Trevor; as well as seven great-grandchildren, Alison Vandervort, Ricky Vansell, Kaidance Vansell, Hudson Bradley, Weston Vandervort, Harrison Bradley and Hays Bradley.

She is preceded in passing by her loving parents, Loyd and Ruth (Stracener) Howe; Her beloved husband Terry Vandervort; a daughter, Alicia Harvey; as well as a sister, Betty Wharton.

A funeral service for Billie will held  at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday,  January 28, 2026 at Lewis Funeral Chapel. A committal will take place at the Fort Smith National Cemetery, following the funeral at 1:00 p.m. Pallbearers will be Seth Vansell, Dylan Vandervort, Landon Bradley, and Trevor Scott. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Billie Jean Vandervort, please visit our floral store.