Billy died peacefully at home on the 12 October age 69 years after a short illness he endured with tremendous courage. He was born and died on the family Croft at Leirin in Durness and spent his whole life in the Parish apart from military service in Korean war. He cared deeply for what he believed in and was able to articulate his opinions on many matters that he was consulted on frequently, a quiet spoken man with a firm determination. He was a social man and enjoyed the company of others. He mixed with all age groups breaking barriers and was a respected elder to the younger generation of the community. Billy was a devoted family man, a father to eldest daughter Helen who has lived in Culloden for 14 years; Hugh and Donald both reside close to the family home. Billy had a total of eight grandchildren. He had many friends and was involved in a diverse number of community activities. He was devastated when he lost his wife Barbara suddenly in May 2000 after 40 years marriage. His close family was a great comfort but Billy never fully recovered from the loss.

Billy worked with Dickie Mackay at the local shop for many years and then for twenty-three years of dedicated employment for the County, District and Highland Councils respectively. Billy retired from the post of Locality Officer for North West Sutherland in 1997. Working in this field Billy came in contact with numerous people and advised on many topics relating to Council concerns. He was absent for only two spells due to serious illness from which he made full speedy recoveries. When retiring from Council Employment Billy continued his crofting responsibilities and secretary of the Keoldale Sheep Stock Club, Community Member of the School Board and the only person to have held the office of President, chairman and chieftain of the Durness Highland Gathering. Billy was a member of Lodge Laxford 1380 since 1961 and a past master.

Billy had made many friends in his life and this was apparent at the turnout to the funeral. The Church of Scotland at Sangomore was packed to capacity with an overflow to the vestry. He will be great loss to the community and will be missed greatly by his friends and family, a much-loved father, father in law and Pada. Deepest sympathy is sincerely expressed to the family.

Billy was interred at Balnakeil cemetery with his wife Barbara. The Rev. John Mann conducted the service.