Adell Billberry

Early Life and Family Roots

Adell Billberry was born on December 4, 1935, in Red Hill Township, Arkansas, to Lineree and Eleanor (Foreman) Billberry. He spent his childhood on his grandparents’ small working farm, where grandparents A.D. and Annie Billberry, alongside his parents, instilled in Adell the enduring values of faith and family—values that stayed with him throughout his life.

During his early years in Arkansas, Adell welcomed two siblings, Doyle and Ruby. In the early 1940s, the Billberry family joined the Great Migration, moving to Quincy, California, in search of stability and better job prospects. Adell cherished his memories in Quincy and often spoke of wanting to return.

Building a Family and Community

Track and basketball were Adell’s favorite pursuits throughout his school years in Quincy. When the family relocated to San Pedro, he continued pursuing his athletic passions in high school. He held several records for track and field at the high school and City Interscholastic Foundation levels. In the early 1950s, Adell met and married Lillian (Lil) Campbell in San Pedro. Their marriage, rooted in faith and love, lasted 54 years and brought three children into their lives: Lynnette, Larry, and Tiana. Together, Adell and Lil created a nurturing and supportive home, prioritizing faith and togetherness. They joined Union Baptist Missionary Church, where Adell actively served as an usher, deacon, and choir member, and participated in a small musical group that performed in church and community events.

Career and Work Ethic

Adell was continuously employed, often balancing two or three jobs at a time—from automobile services to harbor maintenance. Eventually, he began a civil career with the City of Los Angeles, beginning in the Harbor Department and rising to become a Regional Supervisor with the Department of Water and Power. Adell’s 25-year career left him with many lasting friendships and countless stories, especially about his days at LADWP which he delighted in sharing.

Legacy and Passions

Adell’s life was filled with love and happiness. He valued family gatherings and friendship more than anything else. He was instrumental in founding the Foreman Family Reunions – Generations, events that brought extended family together and strengthened connections across generations. Adell passed on his love for faith, family, fishing, camping, road trips, and antique cars to his children and grandchildren. In his later years, he frequently was found in his chair outside his house, offering friendly greetings to both neighbors and their pets.

Celebrating a Life Well Lived

Adell transitioned to be with his Lord on September 10, 2025. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother, sister, son, and granddaughter Emarie. His legacy continues through his loving family: sister and brother in law (Johnny and Linda Ferrell Green), daughter and son-in-law (Lynnette and  William Hutcherson and daughter Tiana Billberry, granddaughters (Shonda Haley, Shavonn Williams, Lori Billberry, April Hamilton, and Elicia Webb), grandsons (Marcus Johnson, Christopher and Kystal Billberry), ten great-grandchildren (Irie McKnight-Mucthison and Camille Haley, Isaiah Hardy-Williams and Issac Walsh-Williams, Justin and Lilianna Billberry, Karma and Karmelo Billberry, Naya and Anthony Romero) and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.