Obituary - Billie Sharp Wills

Billie S. Wills, 92 of Henrico, VA., passed away, Saturday, August 9, 2025. Born September 10, 1932. As a child she knew she was an artist. Gifted with excellent eye-hand coordination. She could draw and paint very accurately. She was awarded an art scholarship to study at the Mint Museum of Art in Charlotte, NC at the age 12.

After earning a Bachelor of fine arts degree from Richmond Professional Institute-(now VCU) in 1954, she taught second and third grade in local public schools. There were no art Programs, so she traded her class with other teacher’s children to teach them art.

While headmistress of Burford Academy for 13 years, she taught art and used art therapy to help children with learning and emotional problems. She studied Art Therapy at the Virginia Treatment Center (MCV).

After earning a Master of education at VCU, she worked in supervision and administration in Chesterfield Elementary Schools. She left there to be Executive Director of Richmond area Learning Disability Council and Director of Awards Program with the Virginia Association of Mental Health.

Billie has cut thousands of silhouettes of children of adults, pets and scenes, drawn and painted many portraits in oil and pastel, winning some awards along the way. She has given talks and demo programs on the history of silhouettes to clubs, churches, schools, retirement centers and other organizations. She has cut silhouettes for birthday parties, weddings, and other events.

In 1981 Billie began to do her art work full time at art shows up and down the east coast. She did “Arts in the Park” for 34 years. Her silhouettes hang on Berry Hill Plantation in South Boston, VA, “The Inn” at Chapel Hill, NC and many other places local and abroad.

A past president of Bon Air Artist Association and member of The College Society. She created and directed several local fine Arts and Craft Shows.

Billie loved art and was grateful for all the opportunities she had. She saw beauty in people and nature and was compelled to express her feelings through art.

She is survived by her children, David Byron Wills and Laura Wills; four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

A service will be held, 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 10th at Unity Church of Bon Air, 923 Buford Road, North Chesterfield, VA 23235.