Obituary of Shani Billings

Blue Hill – Shani McVay Billings, age 50, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2024, at Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital in Ellsworth, Maine. Shani was predeceased by several beloved family members, including her mother, Jane Grindle McVay; uncles, Jack Grindle, Robert “Bob” Grindle, and Darrell Gray; aunt, Edie McVay King; cousin, Mike Grindle, and grandparents, Nora Staples Grindle, Basil Grindle, Norina “Norma” Bouffard McVay, and Gilbert McVay.

She is survived by her husband, Derek Torrey of Blue Hill; her children, Lanie Billings of South Burlington, VT, and Matthew Billings of Blue Hill; and four stepchildren, Maddox Torrey and girlfriend, Autumn, of Hampden, Ashton and Jaden Torrey of Blue Hill, and Zachary Torrey (her “little blond boy”) of Ellsworth.

She is also survived by her father, Raymond “Pudge” McVay, and partner, Jan McKay, of Sedgwick; her sister, Jessi McVay, and partner, Ryan Hardy, of Deer Isle; nieces Addi and Mallory Austin, also of Deer Isle, and many other close family members and friends. Shani was born at Blue Hill Memorial Hospital and has continued to build her life in the Blue Hill area ever since. She attended school in Blue Hill and graduated from George Stevens Academy in 1991. After completing her education, Shani served her community as a beloved barber and stylist for over 25 years. She owned two local businesses and lived out her passion for connecting people and helping others. Although, anyone who knew Shani well, knew her greatest accomplishments were her two children, Matt and Lanie, and the special bond they all shared.

Shani will always be remembered for her natural beauty, poise, and kindness to the world. Whether through her radiant smile, infectious laugh, or unwavering strength, she will live on in our memories, and our love will continue to expand because she lived.
 

The public is invited to join the family for an open house reception to celebrate her beautiful life at 36 Waters Edge Lane in South Blue Hill, Maine on Sunday, January 21st from 2-5 PM. Contributions may be made in her honor, in lieu of flowers, to Angel Flight East of New England.