I just got the sad news that Billy passed away today.

He was an avid bead collector and I had the privilege of seeing his fabulous collection a number of years ago. I will always remember him for his generosity - he sent me a telsum necklace to replace the one I lost when my luggage was stolen.

While the general public will remember him for his songs, the bead community will miss him for his dedication to the beauty of beads.