Billie Earlene Beard-Johnson (affectionately known as "Auntie Beans"), 71, of Sherman, Illinois formerly of Corcoran, California, passed away on September 28, 2018 at 5:42 p.m. at The Villas Senior Care Center surrounded by family. Billie was born on July 28, 1947 in Chicago to Bill and Marcella Beard. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Business from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Billie was the owner and operator of Oak Tree Press Publishing Company based in Corcoran, California. While Billie was born in Illinois, she was a California girl at heart and loved the west coast. Her love of reading fueled her desire to travel.  A huge fan of Jeopardy aided Billie as she enthusiastically challenged every member in her family to Trivial Pursuit and remained undefeated. Billie loved watching CNN and MSNBC.  It was on her television day and night. Mystery novels were her favorite and she was known to read the same book over and over.  You would also have a hard time finding her without a pack of Extra Spearment gum on or near her.

Billie is survived by her daughter, Kirsten Legere of Portland, Oregon; sisters Bev (Ted) Durham, Trisha (Doug) Hancock, and Tarra (Kevin) Norris, all of Taylorville; and brothers Ty (Pam) Beard of Utopia, Texas, Michael (Gena) Beard of Springfield, Missouri, and David (Gail) Beard of Memphis, Tennessee. "Auntie Beans" also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A private celebration of life is planned.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.