Billy Mays, the charismatic television pitchman famous for promoting OxiClean, left an indelible mark on American households. Beyond his commercial success, Mays was also a devoted father to two children, Billy Mays III and Elizabeth Mays. This article delves into their lives and how they have carried forward their father’s legacy in unique ways.
Billy Mays III, born in 1986 to Mays and his first wife Dolores “Dee Dee,” has embraced both the fame and the personal challenges that came with being the son of a television icon. Raised primarily by his mother in Pittsburgh, Billy III spent summers with his father in Florida. As his father's career soared, Billy III found himself balancing pride in his dad’s achievements with the reality of growing up without constant parental presence.
After completing high school, Billy III moved to Florida to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Full Sail University. During this time, he developed a closer relationship with his father, spending significant time living with him in the last few years of Mays' life. This period allowed them to grow as adults rather than just father and son. Post-graduation, Billy III transitioned into working on his father’s infomercial shoots, eventually shifting his focus to music. Today, he is not only a musician but also leads a philanthropic initiative called "Billy Mays Here!" which honors his father’s memory. In his personal life, Billy III is married and has a daughter, ensuring that his father’s legacy continues through family stories and values.
Elizabeth Mays, born around 2006 to Billy Mays and his second wife Deborah, leads a much more private life compared to her older brother. At just three years old when her father passed away, Elizabeth has chosen to maintain a low profile. However, glimpses of her life have been shared by her brother, Billy III, who occasionally posts photos featuring Elizabeth and their father. Despite her young age at the time of her father’s death, Elizabeth’s brief childhood with Mays holds deep significance for those close to the family.
In June 2020, Billy III shared heartfelt memories of his sister and father, reflecting on the impact of Mays’ second chance at fatherhood. He expressed admiration for how Mays embraced this role, especially after becoming a father himself. While Elizabeth remains largely out of the public eye, her existence serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring love and influence of Billy Mays. Through these quiet tributes, Elizabeth and her brother honor their father’s memory in their own distinctive ways.