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Billingsley Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Billingsley Surname

The Billingsley surname is deeply rooted in English history, emerging as a notable family name in the early centuries. Its origins can be traced back to England, where it first appeared in historical records, establishing a strong foundation for the Billingsley family tree. This surname has played a significant role in the tapestry of English heritage, contributing to the broader narrative of family histories over time.

As the Billingsley name gained prominence, it evolved geographically and culturally. Key regions in England served as the initial hubs for the Billingsley lineage, fostering the growth of various family branches. The surname spread significantly during the late 17th century and early 18th century, particularly with migrations to the United States. Notable individuals bearing the Billingsley name have emerged in various fields, including Andrew Billingsley in sociology, Barbara Billingsley in acting, and Sherman Billingsley in nightlife, reflecting the diverse contributions of this family.

YourRoots data provides valuable insights into the genealogy of the Billingsley family, confirming its English origins and tracing its journey across the seas. The database highlights the surname's expansion throughout the centuries, with a notable presence in the United States by the 19th century. This aligns with historical records that show the Billingsley family firmly establishing itself in America, with branches spreading across various states and enriching the American cultural fabric.

For genealogy enthusiasts and family-tree researchers, the YourRoots database offers a comprehensive resource for exploring Billingsley records. It reveals the global spread and diversification of the family in the 20th century, providing a rich source of information for tracing connections and uncovering unique genealogical histories. The continuity between historical narratives and YourRoots data underscores the enduring legacy of the Billingsley family tree.

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Tracing Your Billingsley Family Lineage

Origin of the Billingsley Family: Where does the Billingsley surname come from?

The Billingsley surname first emerged in historical records in England, marking the initial point of genealogical connection for families bearing this name. This early appearance represents the foundations of the Billingsley family tree, establishing roots that would later spread beyond the borders of England. It highlights the significance of this surname in the context of English heritage and its role in the unfolding narrative of family histories.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Billingsley

During the early centuries, the Billingsley family began to expand significantly, particularly within England, where the name found a firm footing. Key regions in England served as hubs for the Billingsley lineage, fostering the growth of family branches that would later embark on journeys across the seas. As time progressed, these families laid down roots in various locales, creating a rich tapestry of connections and branching family trees.

Tracing the Billingsley Family Tree Through the Centuries

The expansion of the Billingsley surname continued into the following centuries, with a notable migration to the United States, particularly during the late 17th century and early 18th century. This period saw a significant increase in the number of families bearing the Billingsley name, as they established new lives in America, contributing to the diverse fabric of early American society. By the 19th century, the Billingsley family had firmly entrenched itself in the United States, with branches spreading across various states and regions, further enriching their genealogical narrative.

Where to Find Billingsley Genealogy Records Today

In modern centuries, the Billingsley surname has continued to evolve and spread globally, with records of families appearing in various regions around the world. The 20th century saw a further diversification of the Billingsley family, as descendants continued to explore new opportunities and establish their presence in different countries. Readers are encouraged to delve into the YourRoots database to uncover their own connections to the Billingsley family tree and trace their unique genealogical history.

Famous People with Billingsley (and Their Family Tree)

Barbara Billingsley

Barbara Billingsley, born Barbara Lillian Combes, was a renowned American actress celebrated for her iconic role as June Cleaver in "Leave It to Beaver" (1957–1963) and its sequel. Her portrayal as the quintessential TV mother, often donning pearls, became a cultural touchstone and was syndicated globally. Billingsley's career spanned uncredited roles in films like "The Bad and the Beautiful" (1952) and memorable appearances in "Airplane!" (1980). As a versatile actress, she transitioned from Broadway to Hollywood, leaving a lasting legacy in television history.

Barbara was born on December 22, 1915, in Los Angeles to Lillian Agnes (née McLaughlin) and Robert Collyer Combes, a police officer. Her parents divorced before her fourth birthday, leading her mother to work as a foreman at a knitting mill.

John Billingsley

John Billingsley, born May 20, 1960, is a renowned American actor celebrated for his role as Doctor Phlox in "Star Trek: Enterprise." With a career spanning various genres, Billingsley has showcased his versatility through roles in TV series like "The X-Files," "Cold Case," and "Prison Break," as well as films such as "The Man from Earth" and "2012." His performances in "True Blood" and "The West Wing" further highlight his dynamic acting range. Known for his appearances in both independent films and major series, Billingsley remains a significant figure in the entertainment industry.

Peter Billingsley

Peter Billingsley, born on April 16, 1971, is an acclaimed American actor and filmmaker, widely recognized for his iconic role as Ralphie Parker in "A Christmas Story" and its sequel "A Christmas Story Christmas." Known for his early career as a child actor, Billingsley starred in numerous commercials, including the popular Hershey's Syrup ads as Messy Marvin. His film credits include "Death Valley," "The Dirt Bike Kid," and "Russkies," earning several Young Artist Award nominations. Transitioning to older roles, he gained an Emmy nomination for his performance in "The Writing on the Wall," highlighting the breadth of his acting prowess.

Peter Billingsley hails from a family with a strong entertainment lineage. Born in New York City, his father, Alwin Michaelsen, is a financial consultant, while his mother, Gail, is the niece of Sherman Billingsley, famed owner of the Stork Club. His family includes siblings who also pursued acting careers, with his sister Melissa and brother Neil achieving notable roles. This familial background in the entertainment industry provided a solid foundation for Billingsley’s successful career in film and television.

JoJo Billingsley

Deborah Jo Billingsley, known as JoJo Billingsley, was a celebrated American singer and songwriter, renowned for her work with Lynyrd Skynyrd as part of "The Honkettes," the band's backing vocalists. Her career highlights include performing at Lynyrd Skynyrd's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2006 and participating in charity events with The Saturday Night Special Band. Billingsley's contributions to Southern rock music and her involvement in charitable activities have left a lasting impact, evidenced by her performances and recordings available online.

JoJo Billingsley was born in Memphis, Tennessee, to parents Doc and Hazel Billingsley. Her family later relocated to Senatobia, Mississippi, where she was raised. She spent her final years living in Cullman, Alabama, with her husband Tim and daughter Destiny, while her son Justin served in the US Navy.

Jennifer Billingsley

Jennifer Billingsley is a retired American actress known for her versatility across television, stage, and film. She made her stage debut in Detroit and gained recognition on Broadway in the musical "Carnival!" Her film career kicked off with a notable role in the 1964 thriller "Lady in a Cage" alongside James Caan. Billingsley became a familiar face on television with recurring roles on "General Hospital" and guest appearances on popular series like "Gunsmoke," "Hawaii Five-O," and "The Amazing Spider-Man." Her filmography includes titles such as "The Young Lovers," "White Lightning," and "Hollywood Man," showcasing her dynamic range as an actress.

Jennifer Billingsley was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, as one of two daughters of Army Colonel Claude Augustus Billingsley. As an "Army brat," she moved frequently, attending schools in Vienna and Chicago before graduating with honors from Fort Smith Senior High School in Arkansas.

Billingsley Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Billingsley" is associated with a variety of notable individuals across different fields, including arts, sports, and academia. Historically, it traces back to figures such as Henry Billingsley, a Lord Mayor of London in the early 17th century, and has connections to both American and British heritage through various professions.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Billingsley

We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Billingsley family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Billingsley surname to learn more.