SPRINGFIELD, IL – Sue Ellen Billington, 83, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. She was born on October 10, 1942, in Chicago, the daughter of George and Mary (Smith) Hockett. She married John ‘Jack” Billington on August 21, 1965.
She is survived by her husband, Jack; daughter, Leah Catherine (fiancé, Mike Reisinger) Billington of Springfield and one brother, Terry Hockett of Gurney, IL.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Sue Ellen Billington was a woman of deep faith, unwavering devotion to her family, a passion for serving others, and an appreciation for all the joys life had to offer.
Sue Ellen was, in so many ways, the classic example of both worlds. Born in Chicago after her father returned from military service overseas, she grew up in Northbrook, Illinois, while never losing her connection to the joys of farm life. She spent her summers with her grandparents, who farmed in Beardstown, where she developed a lifelong appreciation for the simple pleasures of the country. She never lost the excitement of riding on top of a hay wagon to the elevator.
Sue Ellen loved being active and embracing life. She was a champion golfer at Oakcrest Country Club and dedicated more than 20 years as a volunteer for the LPGA Rail Classic. She loved Illini basketball, Notre Dame football, the St. Louis Cardinals, and spending beautiful days pontooning with family and friends. In later years, she developed a fascination with watching Captain Mike sail and took great pleasure in following his adventures on the water.
Her love of nursing became an important part of her life's work. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Millikin University and served on the nursing faculty for several years. She later moved to Champaign to teach as part of the nursing program at St. Mary's Hospital and continued teaching nursing at Elmhurst Hospital. Eventually, Sue Ellen made her home in Springfield, where she became the Administrator of the Hospice Program at Memorial Medical Center.
Sue Ellen was a passionate advocate for those she worked with and cared deeply about her staff. She sincerely believed that the success of the Hospice Program depended upon keeping the staff “healthy, wealthy and wise.” Her compassion, leadership, and commitment to caring for others were hallmarks of both her professional and personal life.
She was also deeply committed to her community and her faith. Always eager to serve, Sue Ellen served as President of the Junior League of Springfield and served on the Boards of Directors of Springfield Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House, where she also served as President. She was devoted to her church community through Blessed Sacrament, the Cathedral, and Sacred Heart-Griffin, as well as through the many other ways she shared her faith with those around her.
Above all else, Sue Ellen was a devoted daughter, a faithful big sister, a fabulous mother, and the very best wife the Good Lord ever placed here on earth. Her faith and family were the foundation of her life. She cherished the people she loved and had a remarkable ability to make those around her feel supported, encouraged, and cared for.
Sue Ellen was especially proud of her daughter, Leah, and loved watching her grow, participate in sports, and pursue the things she loved. She was her biggest supporter and took enormous pride in being present for the many chapters of Leah's life.
Sue Ellen Billington leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, family, friendship, and love. Those who were fortunate enough to know her will remember her warmth, encouragement, laughter, strength, and generous spirit. Her life touched countless people, and her memory will continue to be a blessing to all who loved her.
Visitation: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm, Monday, August 31, 2026 at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield. A prayer service and Central Illinois Nurse Honor Guard Service will be held at 5:30 pm.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date.
Graveside Service: 12:00 pm, Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at Calvary Cemetery with Reverend Seth Brown officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League of Springfield, where Sue Ellen found great joy through her love for Lexie and Payne Stewart, or to Wooden It Be Lovely.
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