Billie Lee Organ

Billie Lee Organ
November 2nd, 1941 – September 20th, 2021

On Monday, September 20th 2021 the world lovingly said goodbye to Billie Lee Organ.

Billie was a world class drummer and a long time luminary of the Kansas City music scene. He was a loving father and an exceedingly wonderful man. Few have ever possessed the effortless wit and charm that Billie had. Throughout his life he was always the life of the party, the leader of the show and had a sparkle in his eye that would light up any room lucky enough to be graced by his presence. No one in his life was left untouched by his kindness, generosity and infectious smile. Where Billie was, a good time was quick to follow. The man was universally loved by everyone he met, even his ex wives.

Billie is survived by his sons Jason Gerken, Alex Organ and Nick Organ, as well as his sister Sandy Novak. His sons have all followed in his musical footsteps and have been involved in the musical landscape of the region for several decades.

Billie was born to Ruth and Fletcher Organ in Granby, Missouri on November 2nd 1941. Shortly after World War II, Ruth and Fletcher moved to Kansas City and began their next chapter as a family. They eventually purchased a humble home at 72nd and Agnes which is where Billie, his brother Danny and his sister Sandy grew up attending Blenheim Grade School and later Southeast High School. During his time at Southeast, he made a number of life long friends and decisions that would define the rest of his life. When Billie was 18 he traded a 1937 Ford to Ray “Bags” Bagby for his first set of drums. From that point forward he went on to create and define the music scenes in Kansas City, Omaha, and California for decades to come. He shared stages and worked alongside stars such as Ike and Tina Turner, Chuck Berry, Lou Rawls, Johnny “Guitar” Watson, Bobby Freeman and Jimmy Reed. He even taught the illustrious Buddy Miles (of Jimi Hendrix fame) how to play drums and nearly became TV star on ABC’s talent show “Shindig”.

Eventually his country came calling as the Vietnam War progressed and Billie flew out to fight in South-East Asia. During his time in Vietnam he served bravely and fought hard, but barely escaped with his life as his base was overrun just hours after his final departure. A period that would later be known as the beginning of the infamous Tet Offensive.

When he returned stateside, he continued his music career with his brother Danny (also a well respected musician) and formed American Sound Ltd. As life went on for Billie, he never lost his love for music and continued to play in various bands around town right up until his health would no longer allow it.

Billie touched more lives than can be counted and left an indelible mark on individuals, institutions and entire regions. His life and relationships were marked with unquestionable kindness, generosity, encouragement and joy. He was a true enabler of living life to its fullest and loving each other (and ourselves) to the maximum extent.

He will be greatly missed, but never ever forgotten.

His services and celebration of life event will be held at 1414 Genessee Street, Kansas City Missouri 64102 on November 6th at 1pm. There will be a live music event that will feature several of his many musician friends and his three sons. Food and drink will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, his family would prefer contributions be donated to a go-fund-me that will be set up. Proceeds will go to the Disabled American Veterans Services Trust, the Kansas City Blues Society and the Mutual Musicians Foundation.