Obituary of Maxwell Billard

Maxwell Eric Billard

March 04, 1938 – December 08, 2019

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden but peaceful passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, partner and friend, Max, at 81 years of age in Chamberlains, Conception Bay South, after a four- and a half year battle with cancer.

He is predeceased by his wife, Edith and subsequent partner, Bessie Kennedy Plus, a long list of brothers, sisters, and other close family members…too numerous to list.

Max is survived by his devoted and loving partner of 16 years, Audrey Mercer, sons Gordon and Brian, daughter Paula (Kevin Hickey), brother Robert, sisters Alice Pike and Laura “Lollipop” (Ted Tevault), grandchildren Renee (Trevor Lane), Erica, Anabelle and Jeremy. Great-grandchildren, Emily, Ryan, Ruby, Mackenzie, Quincey and Dawson.

Max was born in Port aux Basques and moved to the east coast at a young age He eventually attended Memorial University and later commenced a career with The Department of Public Works.

He met Edith Myrtle Butler from Foxtrap while working and schooling on the east coast. They were married in 1960 and spent 35 years together before Edith’s early departure from this world in 1996. He was offered the “Golden Handshake” while in his early 50’s and thus, commenced his retirement.

Over his life and up until the beginning of his illness he thrived on being involved in his community. He was heavily involved with the St. John Ambulance, and later joined the Kiwanis Club, holding many positions and playing multiple roles in both organizations. The Kiwanis Childrens’ Christmas Party and the weekly card games were his pet projects. He loved children and creating environments in which they experienced nothing but happiness.

Special thanks to Dr. Tom Brien, Dr. Thoms, Dr. Al-Asaaed, and the staff of the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre, who provided exceptional care and compassion through Max’s illness.

We also wish to thank the Kennedy family for treating us all like family, and that connection continues to this day. Also, to the Mercer boys, Charlie, Craig and Cory (and their families), for welcoming our father, and us, into their families and especially supporting us through Dad’s illness.

Visitation will take place at Hickey’s Funeral Home on Thursday, December 12 from 2-4 PM, and 7-9 PM; and Friday, December 13 from 2-4 PM, and 7-9 PM.

Celebration of life service to be held on Saturday, December 14 at All Saint’s Church in Foxtrap at 11 am followed by interment at All Saint’s Cemetery on Dunn’s Hill Road.

Reception and refreshments will follow at the All Saint’s Parish Hall. Please join us to help us share and celebrate Max’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre, The Kiwanis Club of Kelligrews or a charity benefiting children. To leave a message of condolence, please visit www.hickeysfuneralhome.com

“My father didn’t tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.”  Clarence Budington Kelland

Long May Your Big Jib Draw!!