James “Billy” Mears, beloved son, brother, cousin, nephew, and friend, left this life on October 24, 2024. Born in Houston on April 6, 1987, Billy grew up in The Woodlands, Texas where he found joy exploring trails and ponds that became his favorite outdoor escapes. Known for his charm, wit, and creativity, he filled every room with a unique love for life. His humor and warmth shone through everything he did—from playful pranks to piano playing. He could make you laugh in an instant and, like any brother, knew exactly how to get under your skin in the most endearing way.
Billy’s heart was at home on the water, where he loved to fish. A lifelong sports fan, he cheered especially for the Houston Texans. His creative spirit moved effortlessly from photography to fishing poles to the pens he used to write poetry. From childhood to adulthood, Billy was the family’s comedian, charming everyone with his humor. He was also deeply devoted to his dogs, who were his constant companions and source of comfort and joy.
A graduate of The Woodlands High School, Class of 2005, Billy found peace in nature and spent countless hours fishing. Most recently, he captured moments through his camera lens and wrote game recaps for the Houston Dynamo fan organization, Dynamo Theory, blending his artistic talent with his love for sports.
Billy’s kindness and loyalty drew friends to him throughout his life, and friendships from childhood to adulthood reflect the warmth he shared with others. Among his close friends are Ryan Chamberlain, Sean Cahill, Anthony Medina, Alex Bell, Julie Bell, Cody Wilson, Michael Bevel, Jason Dimmick, Stephen Peake, Chad Dickson, Bobby Brown, Henning Futrell, and many more.
Raised with love by his paternal aunt and uncle, Renee’ Mears Kelly and Dan Kelly, Billy also leaves behind cherished cousins, including Kristin Kelly and Courtney Kelly, along with many more dear family members and friends. He is survived by his father, James Mark Mears (Robin); his mother, Patricia Sanders Hightower (Michael); and his sisters, Sarah Zill (Patrick Lane) and Heather Zill (James Smith), along with their son, Carter Smith. He is survived by aunts Yvonne Tooke (Bob); Suzette Surman (Mark); and Denise Mears; as well as numerous cousins, Cody Surman (Soueth), Dana Woods (Jason), Amanda Uphold (Kyle), David Tooke (Brittani), Chad Tooke (Michelle), Danny Tooke (Diana), and Shelley Tooke. Billy was predeceased by his sister, Kristal Mears Reams, and his aunt Melanie Mears.
Though he is no longer with us, Billy will be remembered for the joy he brought to others through his laughter, creativity, and countless memories he leaves behind.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 2 to 3 pm with a reception to follow at Cashner Funeral Home, 801 Teas Road in Conroe, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to either Texas Pit Crew, an organization saving the lives of pit bulls (texaspitcrew.org) or Special Pals, the longest running no-kill shelter in Houston (specialpals.org)
