Billie Ann Stabbert Finch passed away surrounded by her loving family on Friday, August 9, 2024 at home in Riverview, FL after a two-year battle with cancer. She was 68 years of age. Billie was born in Callicoon on November 5, 1955, to Fred W. Stabbert, Jr.  and Shirley Kohler Stabbert.

Billie had an incredibly generous spirit and lived a life of service to others; she was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, teacher, and dedicated and giving member of her community. In her quiet way, she worked tirelessly to improve the lives of everyone around her, from family to anyone in need. She was an independent thinker and devout in her faith, which led to a life of adventure, strong family values, and a deep belief in God.

In 1975, she married Peter Finch at the United Methodist Church in Callicoon, and the young couple purchased their first home in Peekskill, followed by a move to New Fairfield, CT. The couple would have celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary on September 20.

Billie and Peter shared a beautiful life together that included the birth of three children, Christian, Amy and Brian. Peter’s career would take the family from their home in Connecticut to Deer Park, Texas, where they lived for nearly a decade.

The couple then moved to Riverview, Florida, to be closer to their children who attended colleges near Tampa. They were blessed with five grandchildren, the light of their lives.

Billie graduated from Delaware Valley Central School in Callicoon and attended Orange County Community College. As she raised her family, she continued her education, receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of South Florida. Like her mother Shirley  and grandmother Nellie, Billie became a schoolteacher, teaching 6th grade science at Shields Middle School in Ruskin, Fl. She loved her students as her own, bringing her big heart and wonderful sense of humor to her teaching. She would sometimes bring in special treats to share with her class – they especially enjoyed Andersen’s Maple Butter.

She always treasured her hometown of Callicoon and the many friends made along the way. She savored her visits there, and in recent years, enjoyed bringing her family north to share her love of this river valley and tell her children and grandchildren the stories of her youth.

Billie’s sharp wit and comedic timing always brought laughter to the table, sometimes at the expense of her four siblings. The middle of five Stabbert children, Billie often “borrowed” her sisters’ favorite outfits and sometimes incited small “riots” at DVCS to keep things interesting.

The Finch family, ever the gracious hosts, often invited the entire Stabbert family to their homes, no matter where they lived. The many nieces and nephews all became close friends and enjoyed the fellowship and laughter that made every reunion so special. The Stabbert family – nearly 25 strong – would also vacation together on occasion, creating memories which will last a lifetime.

Billie is survived by her husband, Peter, and children Christian (Beth), Amy and Brian. She is also survived by five grandchildren, Emily, Peyton, Simon, Norah, and Jack, and many nieces and nephews.

She is survived by four siblings, Kathy Werner, Laurie Sanford (Dick), Mary Hope-Ross (John) and Fred Stabbert III (Regina) and four Robisch family cousins who grew up next door in Callicoon. She is also survived by Peter’s siblings, Janet Grzegorek,  Nancy Lynam, and Betsy Rodino (Ronnie).

A Celebration of Life service will be held in Lithia, Fl on Saturday, August 24.

The Finch family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support shown during this difficult time. Your presence and kindness are deeply appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, Billie’s family would appreciate a donation to the following: Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL https://www.moffitt.org/give/ or Beth Shields Middle School, 15732 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin, FL 33573