Dr. Gary M. Billingsley

Dr. Gary Michael Billingsley was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on November 7th, 2024. A devoted husband, he was married to Janet for 46 years; they worked as a team to build up the people and community around them.

Gary was born on October 8, 1956, in Florence, South Carolina, to Frank and Marcelee Billingsley. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Mary Sanders, Shirley Billingsley, Frank (Clarice) Billingsley and John Billingsley.

In addition to his wife, Janet, his family carries his legacy. His daughter Sarah MacDonald, her husband Matt, and his grandchildren, Lizzy, William, Harley and Andrew, brought continuous joy, love and laughter to his life. He is also survived by his brother, Eric Billingsley.

Dr. Billingsley started his work as a pediatrician in 1987 and served generations of families in the CSRA until his retirement in February 2023. Affectionately called Dr. B., his life’s work was caring for women and children. He cared for them locally as a pediatrician and started Family Promise of Augusta in 1998 – a homeless shelter for families. Dr. B. also cared for women and children worldwide by leading over 20 international mission trips.

As a long-time member of Trinity on the Hill Methodist Church, Dr. B. was passionate about local and international missions and his work as part of the stewardship campaigns. Perhaps he was most well-known to his church community for his silver boxes, reminding many that their words have power and they should feel like a silver box with a bow on top.

Some of Dr. B.’s favorite times were spent at the lake, where he loved riding jet skis and was always smiling as he cruised around on the pontoon boat. He was content to watch his grandchildren splash around and loved the squeals of laughter as they played in the lake under his watchful eye. He also enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews, where he was the “fun uncle” and was known to win a few games of “spoons.” 

To know Gary (Dr. B.) was to love and respect him; generations of families in the CSRA will feel that impact for years to come. In lieu of flowers, if you’d like to help his legacy continue, the family encourages donations to Trinity on the Hill Methodist Church - Missions, Quest Church or any nonprofit you love. The family would also like to extend their deepest appreciation to the staff of Madison Heights and Southeast Hospice for their devoted care and love. 

A service will be held at 11am on Saturday, November 16th, with visitation beginning at 10am at Trinity on the Hill, 1330 Monte Sano Avenue, Augusta, Georgia.