Steamboat Springs, CO — Marking the end of a special era in Steamboat Springs, Jimmy Billys (AKA: Gaffer and Himey), 89, passed away on Saturday, June 17, 2017 at the Yampa Valley Medical Center in Steamboat Springs, CO following a brief illness.

He leaves his two sons, Edward and James Billys; his daughter, Karen Carroll; eight grandchildren; and innumerable close friends.

Jimmy was born and raised in Shippensburg, PA.  After graduating from Shippensburg High School, he attended Shippensburg State Teachers College (now Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania) where he received a bachelor's in education.  Jimmy then attended Temple University in Philadelphia, PA and graduated with a MBA.

After marrying, Jimmy opened a popular shoe store in Shippensburg. The store was renowned for quality shoes, as well as Jimmy's famous roasted peanuts!

Over the years, Jimmy kept hearing the call of mountains and finally decided to move to Killington, VT.  He and his friend, Bill Markle, started a business called "Hardly Able Handymen." After a few years there, Jimmy then moved to Steamboat Springs, CO, which became "home" for the rest of his life.

In 1977, along with 2 partners, Jimmy purchased the Cantina Restaurant.  He became a local legend helping many young people find work, lodging, hot meals…and even small loans.  Jimmy's generous deeds, kind words, friendly smile and contagious chuckle endeared many friends and relatives….and instilled a sense of community in his staff at the Cantina for decades.

J immy was an avid golfer and loved traveling throughout the United States visiting friends and relatives along the way.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent in Jimmy's name to Lift-Up Routt County Food Bank - 970-870-8804 .

A celebration of Jimmy's extraordinary life will be held from 2 until 5 pm on Saturday, September 9, 2017 in the Steamboat Grand Hotel Ballroom.