Billy Mays, the vibrant OxiClean pitchman, left a lasting legacy not only in commercials but also with his two children, Billy Mays III and Elizabeth Mays. As adults, they carry forward the memory of their jovial father in unique ways.
Billy Mays III, born in 1986 to Billy Mays and his first wife Dee Dee, reminisces fondly about spending summers with his father in Florida. Growing up in Pittsburgh, he cherished the times they shared during his father’s work travels. Despite their geographical distance for much of his upbringing, Billy III found humor in his father’s rising fame as the iconic “guy on TV” known for his charismatic infomercials.
Following high school, Billy III pursued a degree at Full Sail University in Florida, which enabled him to live closer to his dad. His father brought him into the world of infomercials as a production assistant on the reality TV series his dad starred in, where they worked together intensely in Billy Mays’ final years.
With a light-hearted take on nepotism, Billy III recounted to PEOPLE how his father ensured he was actively involved on set, even directing his dad in a pizza commercial once. The experience not only deepened their relationship, but also provided him with creative insights. His interest in music flourished, supported by both of his parents, despite their divorce. Billy Mays III is now deeply involved in music and honors his father’s legacy through a philanthropic initiative named ‘Billy Mays Here!’
Billy III is married to Katie Hawkins-Gaar and they have a daughter together. He lovingly shares stories of his father with his daughter, keeping Billy Mays’ spirit alive in their household. He reflects on the absence of grandfathers in her life but emphasizes the family’s strong narrative tradition that bridges the gap.
Elizabeth Mays, born to Billy Mays and his second wife Deborah around 2006, maintains a private life. She was just three years old when her father passed away. Billy III occasionally shares nostalgic glimpses of Elizabeth with her father on social media, highlighting the tender moments they shared. These posts also reveal his own transition into fatherhood and his connection to his sister, illustrating how they cherish their father’s memory.
Though Billy Mays passed away over a decade ago, his influence and the memories he created continue to shape the lives of his children. Billy III and Elizabeth, in their own ways, uphold the legacy of their father, remembering the man behind the charismatic television persona.
Source: Yahoo
