Final Moments of the Billy’s Antiques Coffin [PHOTOS]

As expected, the casket carrying the remains of Billy’s Antiques and Props was removed from its perch at 76 East Houston Street. Pallbearers arrived on Thanksgiving eve to whisk away another vestige of the old Bowery, placing the deceased in a van and driving off. Former proprietor Billy Leroy sent along the following images and informed us that the coffin in now is the hands of a New Jersey collector.

With all evidence of the big-top sundries shop firmly in the past, the corner parcel is finally ready for a new development. Current plans call for a three-story replacement building, but the DOB must still give its blessings. The latest permits are pending in the database.