Billy James Breitschopf

Billy James Breitschopf was born on September 27, 1943 in Cistern, Texas to Willie and Hattie Wilke Breitschopf. He was preceded in death by his three brothers William, Edmund (Buddy), and Herman Lee.

After high school, Billy worked with his brothers at Smith’s Meat Market and later opened Breitschopf Market and Barbeque with his brother William. In 1973, he went to work as an installer and repairman for Guadalupe Valley Telephone Coop. He retired after 30 years of service.

Billy was a coach, umpire and referee for little league and flax baseball for 30 years. He drove around in a Chevy Impala filled with sports gear and children. It was “Billy’s sports car”. The house was always a safe place for all his “kids”, and he was a confidant and counselor to many.

He bowled in a number of leagues and attended many state tournaments sponsored by Hermann Sons.

He belonged to the Independence Golf association. He loved golf and never missed a Wednesday scramble with his unique, highly unorthodox yet effective swing.  Billy loved playing poker with friends locally and going to Coushatta, earning himself the nick name “Straight Flush”.

He was a member of the St. James Catholic Church where he served as usher and Eucharistic Minister. He belonged to ACTS.

He is survived by his loving wife of almost 58 years whom he married on September 24, 1966. He is also survived by daughter Melissa McCollum and son Darin Breitschopf (Katie), granddaughter Taylor Falefia (Noah), grandson Sam Breitschopf and great grandson John Falefia.

Billy had a huge heart and always saw the good in people.

The family would like to express appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Hisey, Dr. Koerner, Shanae Ford, the nurses and staff at the Texan and Elara Caring Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the St. James Alter Society or to a charity of one’s choice.

The family will receive friends from 9 am to 9:30 am Saturday, September 14, 2024 in St. James Catholic Church with prayer of the Holy Rosary following at 9:30 am. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 10 am following the rosary with Fr. Jason Martini as celebrant. Interment will follow in the Gonzales Catholic Cemetery.

Friends may leave their condolences to the family by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com.

Services are under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home.