Current Status and Personal Details
Billy Kilmer is no longer alive. The former NFL quarterback passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 80, according to family statements and public records. His death was confirmed by multiple sources, including close associates and sports archives, ending decades of public speculation about his health and whereabouts Forbes.
Kilmer was born on November 5, 1944, in Owensboro, Kentucky. He grew up in a football-oriented family and later attended the University of California, Los Angeles, where he developed the arm strength and mobility that defined his professional career. His personal life remained relatively private, though he was frequently mentioned in sports biographies and NFL retrospectives ESPN.
Career Highlights and Teams
Billy Kilmer played 12 seasons in the NFL as a quarterback, most notably with the New Orleans Saints and Washington Redskins. He was selected in the first round of the 1967 AFL Draft and later became a starter for the Saints, where he led the team to several competitive seasons during the early 1970s NFL.com.
His most prominent stint came with the Washington Redskins under head coach George Allen. Kilmer helped the team reach the 1972 NFC Championship Game and was known for his strong deep-ball accuracy. After retiring, he remained connected to football through coaching clinics, alumni events, and occasional commentary on the evolution of the quarterback position Pro Football Reference.
Financial Legacy and Net Worth
Billy Kilmer's net worth was estimated in the low millions at the time of his passing, built primarily from NFL contracts, pension benefits, and post-career appearances. His earnings were modest compared to modern quarterbacks, reflecting the salary structure of the 1960s and 1970s, but his financial stability was supported by long-term league benefits and prudent personal management SEC.
His estate, handled by family members and legal representatives, includes memorabilia, licensing rights, and remaining pension distributions. The NFL Players Association continues to manage health and pension benefits for retired players like Kilmer, ensuring ongoing support for his dependents. Financial details remain sealed in probate records, but public filings confirm the involvement of standard estate planning procedures Forbes.