Richard C. Billings, Massena

MASSENA - The Family of Richard Billings are heartbroken to share that he has joined his wife Mary in eternal rest.

Known to most as Dick, he was born in Massena on November 24th 1930, to Hubert and Mary Billings.

He would tell all about his childhood on Skunk Ridge. He was raised outdoors. Fishing, hunting, and playing in the dirt.

He grew up to be an avid outdoorsmen, gardener, and birder. His love of all animals would often lead to less successful hunting trips.

When describing a missed shot his granddaughter Hillary exclaimed "That's pathetic."

He graduated from Massena High School in 1949. After graduation enlisted in the Air Force after which he enrolled at Canton ATI in 1953.

After college he went for further schooling with IBM and graduated from there in 1955.

In between the military and his schooling, he found the love of his life in his sister's best friend. Dick and Mary were married for 70 years before her tragic death last year.

From this marriage they had three sons. Richard, Michael who pre-deceased Dick, and Mark (Susan) who provided care for him in his final year.

Dick was greatly loved and admired by his grandchildren, Emily (Pete), Hillary (William), Chandler (Ben), and Pauline. He and Mary made their childhoods magical and there was never a day they didn't feel loved. This love extended to Pauline's son, Jaxon.

Aside from his children, grandchildren, and great grandchild his family extended through his two sisters, Mary Jane and Leigh, his brother and sister-in-law, Joseph and Kathy, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will occur at the discretion of his family in the spring.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena, where friends may share memories and offer condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.