Mr. Leroy Billins, Sr.

UTICA – Mr. LeRoy Billins, Sr., age 83, went home to the Lord when he passed away in the comfort and dignity of his home on Sunday, June 7, 2026. Born in Unadilla, GA on October 16, 1942, LeRoy was the son of the late Lonnie Sr. and Hazel Billins, “Number Five” of 15 children. The family soon relocated to the Utica area where he graduated from Utica Free Academy and then went to serve in the United States Army. He then found employment and remained for 30 years with Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center as a secure treatment therapy aide. On October 27, 1999, he married his shining star, the former Evelyn Roberts. LeRoy deeply loved his entire family and never failed to tell them so any time he saw them. He was always concerned for the wellbeing of others and made a lasting impact on everyone he met. He truly loved people and they loved him in return. LeRoy was a happy soul with a contagious smile. He loved music and singing, and also enjoyed puzzles, reading, basketball, and watching Western films. LeRoy is survived by his beloved wife, Evelyn; children and their spouses, William and Jeanne Minor, LeRoy Billins II, Grant and Shoshoni Phillips, Gineh Billins and Shean Vann, David and Tammy Rothstein, Lisa and Randall Hogans, and Kevin Rothstein; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; nine siblings; and a slew of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife, JoyAnne Minor; his partner, Nadine Phillips; his grandchildren, Joshua Rothstein and LeRoy Billins, III; and his siblings, Richard, Lonnie, Jackie, Clara, and Sonny. The Billins family extends their gratitude to the staff of Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. for their support during this difficult time. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. A Final Blessing will commence at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For those unable to attend, you may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81845860461. Memorial contributions in LeRoy’s honor may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. online at www.hospicecareinc.org/donate or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at www.stjude.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.

Mr. Leroy Billins, Sr.

October 16, 1942 - June 7, 2026