Katherine Ann Billings

BILLINGS, Katherine Ann Sailor, television producer, acupuncturist and wise friend, passed away from lung cancer at the McCarthy Care Center in Sandwich, MA on September 2, 2009. She was 52. Born in St. Paul, MN, Kate graduated from the University of Minnesota and spent summers at a beloved cabin on Grand Lake. Kate started her career at KTCA, St. Paul and came to WGBH Boston in 1987 to work as an Associate Producer for both the auction and television pledge drives. She went on to work for development at WETA in Washington, D.C. where she produced an award-winning pledge special with actor David Suchet. While in Washington she also pursued her love of sailing. Ms. Billings developed a second career as an acupuncturist, moving herself and her boat, Dulci Bella, back to the Boston area to study, and later teach, at the New England School of Acupuncture. She opened her practice in Falmouth, MA in 2000. Kate was a world traveler, a gifted acupuncturist and optimist. When faced with many serious challenges she found ways to be courageous, embrace life and enhance the lives of others. She is survived by her partner Rich Van Heynigen, their children Rhianna and Colin, her four siblings: Margarita Sweeney, Minneapolis, MN; John Billings, Springfield, MO; William Billings, Ogallala, NE and Mary Billings, Tucson, AZ and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service and celebration of Kate's life will be held at Coonamesset Farm, 227 Hatchville Rd, East Falmouth on September 12, 2009 at 4 PM. In lieu of flowers the family requests that any memorials be sent to Community Health Center of Cape Cod, 107 Commercial Avenue, Mashpee, MA 02649.