SOUTH GLENS FALLS – William R. “Billy” Keays, 66, of South Glens Falls and a longtime resident of Hudson Falls, passed away peacefully at his home, Men of Moreau, on April 21, 2021, after complications from years of health problems.
Born on June 7, 1954 in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late Constance and David Keays.
Billy was a 1974 graduate of Hudson Falls High School. Following graduation, he started his long relationship with the Green Jackets Football team, where he was so proud to have been their waterboy. In 2012, Billy was inducted into the Green Jackets Hall of Fame for all the hard work and dedication he gave to the team.
He was also a hard worker and very devoted at his job. Billy was an assembler at the Community Workshop in Queensbury and after three decades of service, he retired from CWI North County Ventures.
As an avid member of the Special Olympics, Billy competed in bowling, track and field and swimming. Every year, he walked away with many medals and trophies. Billy was a proud athlete. He enjoyed going to Sandy’s, Humbugs and Good Times, where he enjoyed the atmosphere of rock and roll music and dancing. Billy also looked forward to his annual birthday dinner at Hooters.
He was an enthusiastic and friendly man, with a sensitive, caring nature, soft-spoken manner and an outgoing personality. Billy will be greatly missed by his many friends at day program and his housemates, Charlie, Ted and Sean and his cats, Jack and Spirit.
Survivors include his sister, Darah Keays-Todd and her husband Scott of Queensbury; his niece, Jennifer Norris and her husband, Craig of Hudson Falls and children, John and Caira; his nephew, Adam Willis and his wife, Megan and children, Avery, Addison and Ashton.
Billy’s family wishes to extend a special thank you for the love and support provided to Billy from his caregivers throughout the years.
Friends may call on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. All those that attend will be required to wear face masks and maintain social distance.
Funeral Services will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 28, 2021, at the funeral home.
Billy will be laid to rest, following the funeral service, at Union Cemetery in the town of Fort Edward.
The family suggests that memorial donations by made to SPCA of Upstate NY, 588 Queensbury Avenue, Queensbury, NY 12804.
My favorite human being ever. RIP sweet Billy, you will be missed ❤️❤️
What a great person to grow up with on Oak street. A great soul! My heart is sad but I know he will have eternal peace. He taught me kindness.
Billy was a good person- one of the finest, who had a great knack for lifting others’ spirits. He had a contagious enthusiasm and an ever-positive attitude. Before I read of his passing, I happened upon his grave-site, and was deeply saddened. My sincere condolences…
I was sorry to learn of Billy’s passing. Many years ago, I had the pleasure of coaching Bill in Special Olympic bowling. He loved bowling and he always looked forward to the Saturday morning league. I will always remember his smile and the many tournaments Billy was a great ambassador for Special Olympics Bowling program and for the Area 37 & 38 team. RIP Billy.
Greg Barber
Feeding Hills, Massachusetts
My condolences to the entire family. Will always remember your love of music and for your family. Didn’t see you very often but will miss you and love you my cousin
We always considered Billy as a teammate. As important as any player, coach, or board member. I’m old now but, I have a
recollection of an away game bus waiting for Billy to arrive.
We would not leave without him.
Billy was an important part of Derby Park during the years we all grew up there. He loved taking part in all the activities and sports with his many friends. My Dad held a special place in his heart for him. Hope they are reminiscing together. My sympathy to Darah and all of Billy’s family.