Vassar Conkling Obituary

My first memory of knowing Billie was really through her husband because Bill and I were dance partners in the Junior League Follies back in the '70's! We also attended the same church, Old St. Paul's Episcopal Church, and I revered her as Senior Warden. When the dynamics of that Church changed, we went our separate ways to follow our faith preferences. Billie became a long-time member of St. John's of Huntingdon Episcopal Church, and of course, her ecclesiastical needle-point was renowned. Years later as a widow, Billie enjoyed a wonderful friendship with Brent Gunts who at one time had been my first employer as the General Manager of WBAL-TV. We enjoyed being social friends together despite our age differences. Their personalities spanned any age groups. I remember visiting Billie when she moved to Blakehurst. Her apt., like her former homes, was gracious and stunning. She had impeccable taste. Recently, I talked with her in the lobby of Blakehurst as we surveyed the on-going renovation of this retirement community. I, of course, not being thrilled with the changes coming about asked her what she thought. Within seconds she was able to describe the welcoming features of the design and its message to all visitors. As usual I learned once again from her. On the afternoon of Wednesday, Aug. 6th, I heard a familiar voice say "Hey, can anyone use a 4th?" as she approached a fledgling Bridge group I had started a Blakehurst. I can only smile when I think of her being a part of the hilarious group of players at our table. We had a great time! Needless to say, I was shocked to learn of her death just 4 days later. My husband and I are deeply saddened that she is gone but are so grateful that we had the special privilege of knowing her. With deepest sympathy, Welby H. Loane

HAD THE BEST CONVERSATION WITH YOUR MOTHER BEFORE SHE PASSED ......WE LAFFED ABOUT ME BABYSITTING HER 2 BAD BOYS WHEN WE ALL LIVED ON CLOVERHILL RD.......SHE WAS SUCH A LOVELY WOMAN........I AM SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.........SUZANNE WALLACE RAWLING