"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure
is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished the course, I
have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of
righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at
that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also

that love his appearing."
2 Timothy 4:6–8

Carrie Jones Billups was born on April 4, 1921, in
Columbus, Mississippi, to John Wesley Jones and Lourine Smith
Jones. She confessed Christ at an early age, joining Zion Gate
Missionary Baptist Church. Carrie put her Godly gifts to work
teaching Sunday School, and also serving as a member of the
Baptist Training Union (BTU).

Education was a cornerstone. She attended Union Academy
High School, Mary Holmes Seminary College, and Jackson State
University, where she achieved a Bachelor's Degree in Education.
Furthering her education, she achieved a Master's degree from
Alabama A&M University.

In the early 1950's, Carrie moved to Birmingham, Alabama,
and was united in Holy Matrimony to Fred M. Billups, making
a "home" until his death in August 1980. To this union, two
daughters were born. After moving to Birmingham, Carrie joined
Tabernacle Baptist Church, where she was a faithful member
for over sixty years. She was a devoted member of the Fannie P.
Whatley Sunday School class, the Progressive Choir, and Altar
Circle, and a member of the Church's Scholarship Committee,
Friendly Circle, Hospitality Committee, and the Golden Agers.
Notably, Carrie Jones Billups lived to be the most senior member
of Tabernacle Baptist Church at the grand age of 102 years old.
Carrie Jones Billups was an educator for over thirty years,
combined in Columbus, Mississippi, and the Jefferson County
school system here in Birmingham.

God gave Carrie many gifts and talents... She was a dedicated
volunteer at the American Red Cross, Avondale Neighborhood
Association, Birmingham City Council, and spent some time as a
poll worker during the election. Additionally, she was a member
of Ces Coeurs Fieres Social Club, providing needs to the homeless
and less fortunate. She was an active member of various social,
savings, and community-minded club associations.

Carrie Jones Billups departed this life on July 10, 2023, in her
loving home. She leaves to cherish her memories: daughters, Sheila
Billups Woods (Ray) of Birmingham, AL, and Sheryl Billups Stone
(Joe) of Marietta, GA; two grandchildren, Carmen Smith of Los Angeles,
CA; and a host of other relatives and dear friends.