William Billy Mutter

William “Billy” Miller Mutter, 66, of Portsmouth, Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025, after a brief illness, with his loving wife and high school sweetheart Gwen, and his family by his side, reuniting him in heaven with his youngest daughter, Stephanie. Billy was a lifelong resident of Portsmouth and was a 1976 graduate of Cradock High School. Billy was known for his love of life, kindness, and ever-present smile that touched the hearts of all who knew him. Billy began his career at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Shop 57 before transitioning to Code 106, where he spent most of his professional life. He retired in 2019 as the Safety Manager from the Naval Crane Center in Portsmouth, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and excellence in civil service. In addition to his civilian career, Billy served for many years as an auxiliary police officer with the Portsmouth Police Department and was a proud member of the Fraternal Order of Police. He served as President of the Police Association of Virginia and was currently on the Board of Directors. Billy was a life member and Past Master of Lake Drummond Lodge No. 178, where he served on the Board of Trustees and was currently serving as Treasurer. He was a member of the Grand Lodge of Virginia Committee on Lodge Services where he aided and assisted many Lodges throughout the Commonwealth. He was also active in the Royal Arch, serving as High Priest of Cradock RAC No. 72 and District Deputy Grand High Priest for District 21. He was a member of Portsmouth Commandery No. 5, Knights Templar and a member and Past Sovereign Master of Portsmouth-Chesapeake Council No. 155, Allied Masonic Degrees reflecting his devotion to service and brotherhood. In addition, Billy spent many of his days sharing the importance of organ donation to various audiences including neighboring lodges, galas, events, and even medical school lectures. Billy was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Stephanie Mutter Green; his parents, Shelton E. and Gloria Lou Mutter Sr.; his brother, Shelton E. Mutter Jr.; and his father-in-law, Glen E. Blackman. He is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Gwen Blackman Mutter; his daughter Amber Mutter Strickland and her husband Kyle; son-in-law James T. Green and his wife Heather; three cherished granddaughters, Emilyn, Camdyn, and Willow; his mother-in-law Iris K. Blackman; his sister Terri Mutter Johnson (TJ); his sister-in-law Wendy Brown (Bobby); nieces Amanda Walton, Ashley Shephard and Brittany Brown, along with a host of other family and dear friends who will miss him greatly. Billy’s warmth and kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him. A Celebration of Billy’s life with Masonic Rites will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 11:00AM at Deep Creep Baptist Church, Chesapeake, VA. A Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00AM prior to the service. A reception in Billy’s honor will be held immediately following the service at Lake Drummond Masonic Lodge, 509 George Washington Hwy, Chesapeake, VA. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Billy’s memory can be made to the Masonic Home of Virginia or Donate Life America.