As I spent time with Michael Billings in recent years, his potential has consistently shone in our every interaction. I have known a number of men about whom this is true. The truly distinguishing mark on Michael’s life was that this potential was being realized before my eyes. For most men of remarkable gifting, passion, intellect and ability (men whose potential is remarkable), there is often a sense that this potential is not and will never be fully realized. Not so with Michael Billings.

I am not sure I have known a young man whose potential was fulfilled before my eyes as it was in the life of Michael Billings. Every time I saw his remarkable potential bearing fruit, I was struck by the sense that I had previously underestimated that potential. He was a young man who made the most of every opportunity and who challenged himself to serve and know God with every shred of his being. I never had an idle conversation with Michael, and I always came away impressed at his hunger for understanding and his respect and gratitude for our interaction. I also came away encouraged and instructed and often humbled at how he clearly had more carefully and thoughtfully considered a particular topic than I had. I believe that Michael packed as much Godly living into nineteen years as I have ever seen in a man his age. Every time I think fondly of him, I will also be challenged to make the most of every momen

Don Hart, Elder, Attorney,