Lance William Billingsley, accomplished attorney, educator
Lance William Billingsley, a beacon of love, kindness, and wisdom, passed away peacefully Friday, Dec. 27, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. Born April 18, 1940, in Buffalo, N.Y., Lance's life was a testament to the power of education, hard work, and an open heart.
Lance's journey began in Buffalo but his quest for knowledge and his pursuit of higher learning took him to the University of Maryland, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1961. It was there that he met the love of his life, Carolyn Gouza, and the two married in 1962. Lance continued his education at the University of Buffalo, earning his juris doctor degree in 1964, and later attended Harvard University for their postgraduate program on government in 1988. His passion for learning seamlessly transitioned into a passion for teaching and helping others. He fulfilled this as an adjunct professor at University of Maryland and, after retiring to Rehoboth Beach, as a substitute teacher at Cape Henlopen High School. There, he helped children with disabilities and coached the girls' soccer team.
Professionally, Lance was a pillar of both the legal and business communities. He served as attorney for the cities of Hyattsville and College Park, Md., as chairman of Prince George's County Economic Development, and as chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee of Maryland. Lance's legal prowess was further recognized when he served as assistant attorney general for the State of Maryland. His legacy in the legal field was cemented when he co-founded Myers & Billingsley, which grew to be at one time the largest law firm in Prince George's County, Md.
Lance was very passionate about sports, politics, and education, and those three things were anchored in his tremendous love for and involvement with University of Maryland. An avid ‘Terps sports fan, he joined and eventually became president of the University of Maryland Terrapin Club. He was a close advisor to and participated in all of the campaigns for a then little-known professor, Paris Glendening, to an elected position in Hyattsville, Md., who eventually became county executive of Prince George’s County and then a two-term governor of Maryland. He was most proud of being appointed to the Board of Regents, eventually becoming chairman, which led and guided not only University of Maryland but all 12 public universities in the State.
Despite his professional accolades, Lance's heart was always with his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carolyn; their son, Lance William Billingsley II (Allison), and grandchildren Peyton, Piper and Perry; their son, Brant Jay Billingsley (fiancée Pam), and grandchildren Madison, Brant and Cameron; their daughter, Ashlynn Billingsley Wright (Deron), and grandchildren Jessamyn and Murphy; his brother, Terry Billingsley (Beverly), and nieces Regan and Kelly, who will also hold his memory dear; and his sister, Nancy Feldman (Brian). Lance was predeceased by his parents, James and Alice Billingsley.
Lance's interests and personal achievements were as diverse as his professional life. Raised mostly by his grandmother "Ma" from three, he learned the value of resilience and self-reliance early on. A varsity soccer player, student government president, and member of Phi Sigma Kappa during his university days, Lance's leadership qualities shone through from the start. His love for physical activity extended to competitive lacrosse during law school and eventually skiing, tennis, hiking, exercising, and cycling, which he enjoyed throughout his life right up until two months before passing.
Lance's beliefs were the compass by which he navigated life. He advocated for keeping an open mind, pursuing education, and living charitably. He believed in never throwing the first punch, that every person was a friend until proven otherwise, and that success was an opportunity to help others. Above all, Lance believed in the importance of family and the power of love. As we remember Lance, we reflect on a life lived with purpose and generosity. His legacy is not only in the institutions he shaped and the legal battles he fought but also in the hearts he touched and the family he adored. Lance's story is one of a life well-lived, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, March 1, at Kings Creek Country Club, 1 Kings Creek Circle, Rehoboth Beach.
Visit Lance's Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
