Wilma Jean Zaferatos

Wilma “Billie” Jean Zaferatos, 88, of Beckley, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025. Born on October 19, 1936, in Hinton, West Virginia, she was the daughter of coal miner William Buckland and Lena Buckland. She is survived by her loving brother and was preceded in death by her three sisters.

Billie and her late husband, Konstantinos Zaferatos, were the proud owners of the Swan Café, which they operated until 1972. She also served as a dispatcher for the West Virginia State Police, where she was known for her dedication and commitment to the community.

Billie was an active member of Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church, where her faith played a central role in her life. She also served as president of the Democrat Women’s Club and was known for sharing her love of crochet to those around her.

She is survived by her sons: Jerry and his wife Kathy, Dennis and his wife Misty, and Bill and his wife Theresa. Billie was a devoted grandmother to nine grandchildren and a proud great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren—with a seventh on the way. Billie is also survived by her lifelong family friend, George Lowen, many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Remembered for her warmth, kindness, and selflessness, Billie had a heart of gold and always put others first. Her loving spirit touched many, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will begin at 2:00pm at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, followed by funeral services at 3:00pm on Saturday, April 26thofficiated by The Very, Reverend Father Samual Haddad.

Pallbearers will be her grandsons Dino, Connor and Ryan; Justin Fairchild, Colten Moore, Corey Sparks, and Dan Hardway. Honorary pallbearers will be her great grandsons Konstantinos Zaferatos and Jack Fairchild.

The funeral arrangements are being handled by Calfee Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Nicholas Orthodox Church at 211 S. Heber Street, Beckley, WV 25801.