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Billie Knudson Howard, 93, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 19, 2010. She was a long time resident of New Mexico, with over 70 years in Albuquerque and the last 14 years in Rio Rancho. No matter where she traveled in the world, New Mexico was always her home. Born "Clara Christine Knudson" on March 28, 1916, in the small town of Gladstone, NM, she was the daughter of George Henry and Hallie Mallow Knudson. As a small child, when learning to talk, her first words she learned was "Bill", the name of a small riding pony owned by her older brothers, John Knudson and Earl Knudson. She was so intrigued by the pony and repeated his name so much that the family called her "Billie" and never by her birth name. Later on in years, everything she owned was known as "Billie" and everyone called her "Billie" until her final resting place in heaven. Billie was never afraid of relationships and survived four deceased husbands before finally finding her life mate, Thomas Jefferson Howard. Of all her marriages, the one to Thomas lasted over thirty years and they were known to family and friends as world travelers. Their most famous statement was, "Tom and Billie on the road to everywhere", yet always coming back to Albuquerque, NM as home. She is preceded in death by her parents, George Henry and Hallie Mallow Knudson; three brothers, John, Earl and George Wayne; one sister, Frieda. Her only surviving sister, Martha Rinehart resides in Arlington, TX. She was also preceded in death by her only daughter, Bernadine Davis. She is survived by her remaining three sons and wives, William and Lana Lawson of Santa Rosa, CA, Donald and Bonnie Galloway of Grass Valley, CA, and Wayne and Penny Holly of Rio Rancho, NM; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson, along with many cousins, nieces and nephews. Billie was a member of "Faith on the Hill" church in Rio Rancho along with her husband Tom and long after his passing, she lived with her youngest son, Wayne until needing full time nursing assistance. Every Sunday she was in church and would visit with her son and family. In her later years, her most famous statement to the family and friends was, "Okey Dokey". Billie's smile, wiggle, laughter and her famous statement will forever be missed. Cremation has taken place at Vista Verde Memorial Park and Billie will be laid to rest along with her beloved husband, Thomas at a special Memorial Service for veterans. The service will take place on Tuesday, January 26, 2010, 1:00 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery. This will be a short, but honorable service for Thomas and Billie Howard. From her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sister, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends, God Bless You Clara Christine "Billie Knudson" Howard. Love you always, Your son - Wayne D. Holly. Those who wish to express their condolences may do so at www.danielsfuneral.com. Arrangements are entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 4310 Sara Road SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124 505-892-9920
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