William Michael Billings

I would like to be remembered as a man who had a wonderful time living life, a man who had good friends, fine family – and I don’t think I could ask for anything more than that, actually.  Frank Sinatra

William Michael “Bill” Billings

William M. “Bill” Billings, beloved husband, father, and consummate New Yorker, passed away with his wife Jeanne at his side on Wednesday, June 3rd. He was 69 years old.

Born on August 8, 1956, at the New York Polyclinic Hospital in Manhattan to Harry and Mickey Billings (nee Reddington), Bill was a true son of New York City. Raised in Chelsea, he embodied the spirit, energy, grit, and character of the city he loved so deeply throughout his life.

A gifted child, Bill was reading by the age of two. His natural intellect, sharp wit, and love of learning flourished at Xavier High School, Fordham University, and later at St. John’s University School of Law. Though his accomplishments in the legal profession were many, those who knew Bill best understood that his greatest passions extended far beyond the courtroom.

His childhood was filled with adventures among neighborhood friends in Chelsea and summers spent at Rockaway Beach. Those endless summer days forged friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime. Among those friendships was one that became the great love story of his life.

Bill met Angela Jeanne Boyd as a first grader at St. Columba Grammar School. Together they shared a remarkable journey that spanned more than six decades. They graduated eighth grade side by side (by side), both receiving the General Medal of Academic Excellence, attended prom together, and were married in 1983. Their enduring love was the foundation of a life filled with laughter, devotion, and partnership.

In March 1990, they welcomed their son, Andrew Reddington Billings, who became the pride and joy of Bill’s life. No father could have loved a son more deeply. Bill delighted in every achievement, every conversation, and every moment spent with Andrew. That joy multiplied when Andrew married Marissa Schwartz and gave Bill the treasured role of grandfather. He adored his grandson, James Reddington Billings, whose presence brought him immeasurable happiness. Bill was also eagerly anticipating the arrival of another grandchild, a blessing that brought excitement and love.

Bill’s interests reflected the richness of his personality. A devoted New York sports fan, he faithfully followed the Yankees, Rangers, Giants, and his beloved St. John’s Red Storm. During March Madness, family and friends knew better than to make competing plans. One could often find him settled into a game wearing his St. John’s shorts, a rum and Coke nearby, fully invested in every play.

His love for New York extended beyond sports. Bill cherished the theater and was a devoted admirer of Broadway. Like a character in a Stephen Sondheim song, he celebrated the rhythms, stories, and spirit of his city. The audiophile that he was, much of his leisure time was spent walking the streets of the city popping into a book store, a record shop, or J & R Music World.

He was also, by all accounts, the ultimate Frank Sinatra fan. His enthusiasm for Francis Albert Sinatra was renowned among family and friends. Sinatra’s music formed the soundtrack of his life, and he proudly embraced the role of unofficial ambassador for all things Sinatra and was known for throwing epic birthday parties in Frank’s honor over the years. One of the many ways he shared that love was through food, often preparing Dolly Sinatra’s pasta sauce for Jeanne, a favorite meal that became a cherished tradition in their home.

Bill was known for his impeccable style. Rarely seen without a polished appearance, he carried himself with timeless elegance, often dressed in his beloved Brooks Brothers clothing. Whether attending a family gathering, heading into the city, or simply enjoying a day out, he believed in looking his best.

Yet beneath the intellect, style, and accomplishments was a man whose greatest joy came from making others happy. An avid comic book collator himself, he delighted in searching for collectibles and treasures for his son, niece, and nephew. From Pokémon cards to McDonald’s Disney collectibles and countless other treasures, Bill was never happier than when he was on a hunt for something special that would bring a smile to someone he loved.

His lifelong friend, best man, and brother in all but blood, Roy Muraskiewicz, remained one of the most treasured relationships of his life. Together they spent countless hours from boyhood to adulthood becoming men in the city that raised them.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Angela Jeanne (nee Boyd) Billings; his son, Andrew Reddington Billings, and daughter-in-law, Marissa Schwartz; his cherished grandson, James Reddington Billings, and a grandchild on the way. He is also survived by his sisters, Theresa Billings Angley and her husband Richard, and Joan Billings Brisson and her husband Paul; his nieces and nephews, Flynn and Erin Angley, and Timothy and Abigail Brisson; as well as many cousins, relatives, and dear friends throughout New York, Pennsylvania, and beyond.

William M. Billings lived a life rooted in love, family, friendship, loyalty, and the city he never stopped calling home. He was the essence of a Beatles ballad, a gentleman of another era, a devoted husband and father, a proud grandfather, and a native New Yorker through and through.

His was a life well-lived, well-loved, and impossible to forget.

Visitation will take place on Friday, June 12th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Pelham Funeral Home, 64 Lincoln Ave., Pelham, NY; a Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, June 13th at 12:30 pm in the chapel of St. Cabrini of Westchester, 115 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY; burial to follow at Ferncliff Cemetery, 280-284 Secor Road, Hartsdale, NY.