Billy was 71 and passed away on 14 December 2020.

He served on the management committee since 1993 when the Co-op was set up and was a key member of the steering group that helped deliver the Co-op to the Forgewood area of Motherwell.

Billy will be remembered by everyone connected to the co-op and the wider housing community as a dedicated resident who worked tirelessly to make the area a better place for everyone to live. He was passionate about the continuous improvement of the Forgewood area and very seldom missed a management committee meeting. 

Other committee members within the social housing sector may know Billy from his attendance at various conferences, training events and seminars over the years.

Alan Thomson, vice chair of the Co-op, said: “Having known Billy for many years as a friend and fellow committee member, he was such a dedicated individual and was always doing his best to help make the Co-op and the wider community continue to grow. He was very supportive of the fellow members of the management committee as well as the staff team at the Co-op.

“He was liked by everyone and all of our thoughts are with Agnes at this sad time. I am also sure that other committee members from different housing providers throughout the country who met Billy at various events will be sad to learn of his death.”

Billy was awarded the EVH Long service award for committee members in 2019. He was very proud of this achievement. The management committee are discussing options on a fitting tribute to Billy at Forgewood Community Centre.

Billy’s funeral took place on 18 January 2021 at Airbles Cemetery in Motherwell.