Richard E. Billings

Richard Billings, born in Williamsport, Indiana, on December 10, 1932 and passed away on September 29, 2019 in Indianapolis. He was the son of Preston H. Billings and Marguerite Earhart Billings of Williamsport.   He is survived by his wife Diane Billings, sons Robert and Steven Billings (Elizabeth) of Cleveland; daughter-in law, Janet Billings (Grant Schlarb) of Indianapolis; granddaughters Sarah Billings, Kristen Billings, and Maeve Billings; and great-grandchildren, Nadia and Bayoni Billings.

Dr. Billings graduated from Williamsport High School and earned a DVM from Michigan State Veterinary College.  He practiced veterinary medicine in Indianapolis and was a founding partner of Michigan Road Animal Hospital.  He led a consortium of veterinarians in Indianapolis to open the Airport Animal Emergi-Center. Upon retirement from his veterinary practice, he was a founding partner of C. Specialties, an animal care supply company where he worked until his death.  In addition, he was President of the Billings Farm Corporation and, in this role, expanded and enhanced the family farms by improving sustainability through planting walnut tree groves and establishing wetlands sanctuaries for wildlife.

Richard was a member of the Sertoma Club of Indianapolis, the Indiana Veterinary Medicine Association, and the American Veterinary Medical Association. He also was instrumental in advocating for moving the Indianapolis Humane Society to its current location on Michigan Road.

Many people in his life were touched by his wisdom and generosity.  He was a mentor to numerous veterinary students from Purdue University who worked with him at the Michigan Road Animal Hospital.  His friends and family also benefited from his kindness. Although work may have been his greatest hobby, he was also an excellent photographer, fisherman, and unconventional card shark at bridge.

To honor Richard’s memory, please consider contributing to the Indiana Arbor Day Foundation (https://shop.arborday.org/donate-now.aspx) or to the Richard and Diane Billings Faculty Research Fund at Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis (https://nursing.iupui.edu/alumni-giving/giving/index.shtml).

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2019 at Flanner Buchanan-Zionsville, 105 W. Pine, Zionsville, Indiana at 11am, with visitation one hour prior.