I haven’t always been known as Billie Walter. I’ve also been known as Shirley Elizabeth Kuhn, Billie Perkins, Shirley Jackson, Billie Jackson, Shirley Brueske and Billie Brueske. If you read my “Name Changes” page you’ll see how all of these names came about.
You see, my parents divorced when I was four years old and my father got custody of me when I was seven. That was back in 1957 when hardly a man alive was gaining custody of his kids. Since he was single at the time, he was forced to put me in a foster care. I actually lived in three different foster homes over the course of three years. During those three years, I was repeatedly beaten and sexually abused. At the age of ten I was sent to live in a Children’s Home in Mars, Pennsylvania. I lived in the Children’s Home until I graduated from High School at seventeen years old.
With no money and nowhere to go, I went to work as a secretary. I loved being on my own but I was totally unprepared for what life was about to offer. Over the next two years, I had my first consensual sexual experience, experienced both the highs and lows of alcohol and drugs, survived a horrible car accident, was raped, beaten and also had an abortion. The first twenty years of my live were pretty rough.
Things were about to change. At twenty, I moved to New York City and went to work for Atlantic Records, a major record company. I also got work as a model, actress and a Playboy Bunny. At twenty-three I moved to London to work for a well-know rock band, Emerson, Lake and Palmer. A year later, after traveling around Europe, I returned to New York City. At twenty-five, I moved to Los Angeles where I pursued my acting career. At twenty-nine, I returned to New York where I married for the first time and lived until I turned thirty-one. Once again it was time for a change. This time I moved to Las Vegas. Careers as a private investigator, poker dealer and financial planner have filled much of my time in Las Vegas. I remarried for a second time at thirty-nine and got divorced at forty-nine. I have been happily married to the last man that I will EVER be married to since 2003.
To this day I have had more than twenty different careers and more than 250 different jobs. By the way, I have never been fired.
Hi, my name is Billie Walter. I knew that one day I would write the stories of my life. In fact, I was offered a book deal when I was twenty years old but I decided to wait until I was a little older and had a few more life experiences. Since then I've had 5 different name changes, more than 20 different careers and more than 225 different jobs. I've also had a lot more life experiences so I've decided to set up a site where I can share my stories with friends, family and anyone else who is interested in reading them. I hope you enjoy them because they're all true.
Hi Billie,
I was raised in foster homes and, for a short while, an orphanage too, so I can relate very well to what your childhood was like as mine was quite similar to yours.
I like your blog site very much and will be recommending it on Twitter.
I’ll be back to read more of your blog. Keep writing and sharing with all of us. Your story, your heart, and your compassion is invaluable to many, including me.
Blessings to you,
Christine
Christine,
Thanks so much for the kind words. I’m sorry that you had to endure some of the same things in childhood that I had to endure. Fortunately, we came out of it okay.
I enjoy your site very much and will continue following you on Twitter.
Billie
Hi Billie,
Your honesty about your life is an inspiration and also very courageous for you to speak openly about.
I too had been raped at a very young age by someone in a position of trust, and later in my life endured spousal abuse, until I just said enough and walked out with what I had on my back!
I will follow you and look forward to hearing from you if you so desire. God Bless you.
Shirley,
Thanks for visiting my site. I’m happy to hear that you were strong enough to overcome not one, but two horrible experiences. I know it’s not always easy. I find that writing about it does help. Keep reading (I’m writing as fast as I can) and feel free to comment. If you want to write to me directly, you can
E-Mail me at: billie@billiewalter.com. I’d love to keep in touch!
Billie
Hi Billie,
Every time I read all of your stories, I am mesmerized. Why don’t you try and get that published into a book again? I’m certain it would be a best seller!
You have more courage than anyone I’ve EVER known. Billie, you are truly a beautiful soul and I’m so very proud and honored to call you my friend.
Love ya girl,
Renée
Renee,
You always have words of encouragement and that is why you are such a great friend. Having lots in common doesn’t hurt either. Speaking of courage, you’re a perfect example, so I think it’s time for you to write your story. I sure would love reading it as I am sure others would feel the same way.
Love and Hugs,
Billie