Billy Schulz–A kind, Loving, and Courageous Gentleman

Billy Schulz passed away on Sunday, September 2, 2012. Billy loved everyone he ever met and was standing ready to love those he had yet to meet. He was a pioneer in the field of Special Needs. Billy will be missed by many people all over the world. He touched a lot of people and changed a lot of attitudes and lives.

A memorial service will be held for Billy in Kingsport, Tennessee on Saturday, September 8. I hope the meeting hall will be big enough.

You may read all about Billy if you visit the website GROWN MAN NOW

The following article was published on January 28, 2012

In my family, January 28 has been the most important day of the year for the last fifty five years. Fifty five years ago was when Billy Schulz first realized that there was a special day that was just for him. For fifty five years, according to Billy and lots of others, This date has been bigger than Christmas.

Billy will be 56 years old Saturday. Dekie and I will be in Kingsport to join in the festivities and the celebration. This year, there is an additional celebration in that this past week, Billy received a very special award from his employer, Food City, where he was recognized for ten years of service to the company. Here’s a picture of Billy with his ten year pin. It has diamonds and rubies. Billy looks happy. Congratulations are in order.

I remember a few years ago when there was a really big birthday party for Billy’s fiftieth. People came from all over the world to be with him on the special day. They came from New York, Iowa, and even from Japan. What a party that was.

I think the best thing about having watched Billy for the past half a century and more has been seeing a man use his given talents to the maximum. His social skills are amazing, and he has never met a stranger. Billy loves everyone he meets and he distributes his gift of joy wherever he goes. He is truly a special person.

At the time Billy was born, people didn’t know much about Down syndrome. Billy and his mother, Jane were pioneers in the field of special education. His mother earned a doctorate in special education and taught at Western Carolina University for many years. Billy has given talks and slide presentations all over the country.

I love the way Billy tells his own story. He wrote his own article for his birthday in which he said,

“I am born,January 28, 1956. And now I BE 56. That is the same number. Hunh. I like that.

Now I not be 55 any more. But I like that, be 55. It is a good year. But I be 56, now that’s bether!

Now I going to be a old, old man. But I like it.

You know what? Alan Alda born on January 28. Plays on M.A.S.H. I like that show, and it is so funny.”

You may read the rest of Billy’s article IF YOU CLICK HERE

And here’s another part of the celebration: Billy and his mother, Jane B. Schulz wrote a book, Grown Man Now that tells all about growing up and dealing with the talents he was given. This most interesting memoir goes into great depth in relating the story of Billy, his family, and especially his parents as they deal with the problems and joys of his life. You may read about the book and purchase an autographed copy from the publisher with free shipping by clicking here. If you know someone who is dealing with Down syndrome or other disabilities, do them a favor and suggest the book.

I really like the picture on the cover of the book. Dad was a devoted advocate for Billy and helped him whenever he needed help. After Dad had a stroke the tables turned and Billy became the care giver and helper.

You can even be friends with Billy Schulz on face book. He’s the one fromKingsport,Tennessee.

So, one more time: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BILLY. I have a wonderful brother.

I wrote another article about Billy and why the book Redemption for a Redneck was dedicated to him. You may read that article here