Neil Billings, also known as “Wayne,” of Spartanburg, S.C., died on Monday, March 28, at the age of 72. A native of Spartanburg County, he was born on June 6, 1949, and was the son of the late Ernest A. Billings and Vennie S. Billings.
He was a 1967 graduate of Spartanburg High School and Wofford College in 1971 and a lifelong brother of the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. He was also a member of the National Guard stationed at Fort Knox. Neil continued his everlasting search for knowledge completing a Masters in Science and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina in Columbia.
Mr. Billings started his first job as an ER technician under his mentor Lela L. Greer RN, whom he held in highest esteem always. After graduation, he started with S.C. DHEC at Spartanburg Health Department as an environmentalist and was published at that time.
His move to Columbia in 1980 introduced him to the love of his life and his lifelong partner Michelle DuPre. Michelle was tasked with orienting him to his new position with Southern Bell as an account executive. In 1982 they purchased an historic home in Columbia and renovated it together.
Neil was promoted to AT&T headquarters in New Jersey for a marketing manager position in 1985. In 1987, AT&T began downsizing, and Neil wanted to start his own business. The couple moved to St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, and began their own marketing firm called Image Concepts. Hurricane Hugo changed the landscape and family responsibilities weighed heavily.
In 1997, he moved home to take care of his family and raised Cole and Jacob, his amazing nephews, with his baby sister, Tammy, who says they would not have survived without his sacrifice.
Neil entered into his final career with Raymond James Associates as a financial planner in Greenville, S.C.
Neil had many passions. He loved his family, Wofford College and the brothers at Delta Sig fraternity. He loved to cook new dishes and was always open to adventures. His gregarious nature and infectious smile made friends easily. He will be missed by all that knew him.
Neil is survived by his sister, Tammy B. Vinson; nephews: Cole Vinson (Hannah) and Jacob Vinson (Yaneth); and his life partner, Michelle DuPre. He was predeceased by his parents: Ernie and Vennie Billings; and sister, Nancy O. Billings.
Visitation will be at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 14, at Floyd’s Greenlawn Chapel, 2075 East Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29307. A funeral service will follow at 4 p.m. There will be a private interment with immediate family only.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any of the following: gift to Wofford College in honor of Delta Sigma Phi 864-597-4200; Memorial donations to the American Red Cross 1-800-HELP NOW(1-800-435-7669); or Spartanburg High School Class of 67 Scholarship Fund through The Spartanburg County Foundation, 242 East Kennedy Street, Spartanburg S.C. 29302 ( please include Fund 2042 on your check or online contribution).
An online guest register is available at www.floydmortuary.com
Floyd’s North Church Street Chapel
