Sunrise September 15, 1939 — Sunset March 11, 2026
Walter James Billups, 86, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, passed away on March 11, 2026. Born on September 15, 1939, in Yazoo, Mississippi, he grew up in Minneapolis, where he graduated from South High School.
He went on to work as a paraprofessional at South High School and Franklin Middle School, dedicating 35 years to the field of education before retiring in 2007. His commitment to students and staff left a lasting impression. “Mr. Billups,” as he was fondly known, is remembered by many who continue to share stories of his kindness and impact to this day.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy (Thompson) Billups; his sister, Shirley Graves; and his brothers, Fred Thompson and Mark Anthony Billups.
He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Tyrone Billups, Tonia Anderson, Danita Salone, Deon Anderson, Bonita Thomas, and Rickey Randle; his siblings, Troyley (Ali) Billups and Sandra Howard; his grandchildren, Jaymes Anderson, Jerry Wells Jr., Jazmine Wells, Mark Billups, Tyrone Billups Jr., Antonio Johnson, Johanna Johnson (Peaches), Korey Billups, and Justin Billups; six great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 8565 Edinburgh Center Drive in Brooklyn Park, on April 16, at 11:00 AM.