It is with profound sadness that we share the news that our friend, partner, and one of the greatest pitchmen the world has ever known — Billy Mays — has passed away. Billy was found unresponsive at his home in Tampa, Florida this morning. He was 50 years old.

There are no words that adequately capture what Billy meant to the Livemercial family. He wasn’t just a business partner — he was a friend. A true friend. The kind of person who lit up every room he walked into with his booming voice, infectious energy, and genuine warmth for every person he met.

Last September 4, 2008, the city of Valparaiso, Indiana proclaimed “Billy Mays Day” when Billy visited our headquarters and the community that Livemercial calls home. It was one of the most memorable days in our company’s history. The entire city came out to welcome him, and Billy — being Billy — shook every hand, posed for every photo, and made everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room.

Billy was a gregarious and generous man. Humble and gracious to the end. A true American icon.

Whether he was pitching OxiClean at three in the morning or standing in our office joking with the team, Billy brought the same energy, the same passion, and the same authenticity. He believed in the products he sold. He believed in the people he worked with. And he believed that if you worked hard enough and cared enough, anything was possible.

Our hearts go out to his wife Deborah, his children, and his entire family. The direct response industry has lost its brightest star, and the world has lost a man who proved that being loud, proud, and unapologetically yourself is a pretty great way to live.

Rest in peace, Billy. We miss you already.

Billy Mays — July 20, 1958 – June 28, 2009