Lelia Elese Billingsly Vital of St. Louis, MO, passed away on October 6, 2010 in Atlanta, GA. She was the first child born to Katherine Frazier Billingsly and Clem Ellis Billingsly. She attended Most Blessed Sacrament Elementary School in St. Louis and University City schools. Lelia graduated from University City High School in 1977 and attended the University of Missouri, St. Louis and Fontbonne University.
She wed Adam G. Vital, II in 1987, and two sons were born to them; Adam G. Vital, III and Alexander G. Vital. Her husband was an executive for AT&T, and his work took them to Little Rock, AR, Chicago, IL, San Francisco, CA and Atlanta, GA. As a stay-at-home mom, her time was devoted to the activities of her boys, which included soccer, football, track and basketball. Lelia took great pride in her sons’ education and spiritual development.
She leaves to mourn: her husband, Adam; two sons, Adam and Alex; her parents, Clem and Katherine Billingsly; a sister, Shelly Billingsly McDuffie (Anthony); a brother, Clem Billingsly II (Diana); and two nieces, Olivia and Sofia Billingsly. She will also be missed by many cousins, aunts, uncles and a host of friends.
A memorial celebration will be held for Lelia on October 24, 2010 from 3:30-6:30 pm at the Heman Park Community Center, 975 Pennsylvania Ave., University City, MO 63130.
Colorful casual attire, please. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society.