Dorothy Billings

Dorothy Beatrice Billings (McKissic), lovingly known as “Mother”, was born in
Woodbridge, New Jersey on December 10, 1921 to the late Aaron and Johnnie Mae
McKissic. She was one of eight children and her education was obtained in the New
Jersey Public School System. Dorothy was the beloved wife of the late William Dean
Billings for over 65 years. In 1948 she followed her husband and their family moved to
Detroit, Michigan where she retired from General Motors-Cadillac Motor Car Division
after more than 25 years of service. In 1980 she moved to Southfield, Michigan and
remained there until three years ago.

Dorothy declared Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was a faithful
servant. She was a member of Morning View Missionary Baptist Church for over 50
years and served as a member of the Mission Department, Mother’s Board, Choir
Director, Youth Director, Vacation Bible School Teacher, Sunday School Teacher and
Director of Christian Education. In addition, Dorothy was also a member of the Calvary
District Association where she served as Youth Director and a member of the Bridge
Builders. She shared her love of music with her family and others by being a piano
teacher for over 50 years hosting numerous piano recitals for her students.

On May 14, 2011, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s, Dorothy peacefully passed away
in the home of her daughter Karen Spears in Bay City, MI where she has resided for the
past three years. Dorothy touched many lives and will be remembered most for her
loving spirit, selflessness and her giving heart. There was never a person in need that
Dorothy turned away. She showed her ability to help others by giving a home and being
a “Mother” to her adopted children, God children, foster children and many others. She
opened her home and heart to so many and was loved by everyone always putting God
first, raising her children to do the same.

Dorothy will forever be missed and remembered by her youngest sister, Marie Koonce,
seven children Joyce Matthews, Lawrence “Ronnie” Billings (Esther), Gwendolyn Smith
(Edward-deceased), Richard Billings (Clarice), Kevin Billings, Karen Spears (Levon)
and William “Keith” Billings (Lyndurice) and a host of God children, adopted children,
grandchildren, great grand children, great-great grand children, foster children, nieces,
nephews, family and friends. Preceding her in death are her parents Aaron and Johnnie
Mae McKissic, her beloved husband William Dean Billings, baby Beverly Billings, sister
Catherine Scott, brothers Frank, Napoleon, Walter, Nathaniel and Aaron “Larry”
McKissic, granddaughter Camille Billings and son in law Edward Smith.