Sue Billingsly, former director of the Missouri Southern Foundation, died Tuesday, Nov. 12, in Joplin.

Billingsly, 89, was the widow of the late Dr. Leon Billingsly, who served as president of Joplin Junior College – which later became Missouri Southern State College – from 1964 until his death in 1978.

Dr. Billingsly had previously served as a dean at Joplin Junior College from 1961-63.

“We mourn this fine lady who offered so much to Missouri Southern throughout the years,” said Dr. Alan Marble, interim president of Missouri Southern State University. “She will be missed.”

Mrs. Billingsly became director of the Missouri Southern Foundation in 1979.  With both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, she had taught in public schools for several years.