William Lee “Billy” Routten, Sr., 77, died Thursday, August 13, 2026. Born in Hampton, he was a lifelong resident and retired as a Master Shipbuilder from the Newport News Shipyard in 2016 after 47 years of service. He was a member of the Salvation Army and was a life member of the Elks Lodge #366. An avid sports fan, Billy especially loved the New York Yankees and the Miami Dolphins.

The family would like to thank all of Billy’s friends for keeping in touch with him during his illness, and especially to George Nichols for the time he spent with Billy.

Preceded in death by his parents, William E. and Shirley W. Routten, a brother, John Medwin Routten, and a grandson, Deon Routten; survivors include his wife of 59 years, Linda M. Routten; his daughter, Vicky R. Cooper; his son, William L. Routten, Jr.; his granddaughter, Amber Gainey (Michael); five great-grandchildren, Maria Piche and Carter, Colton, Conner, and Colby Hurley; his brother, Richard P. Routten; and three nephews, Shawn, Brandon, and Ty Routten.

The family will receive friends from 3-4:30 Sunday, August 16, 2026, at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home. A funeral service will be conducted at 2 pm Monday, August 17, 2026, in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in Clark Cemetery.

The family requests that memorials be made to the Salvation Army, 14425 Old Courthouse Way, Newport News, VA 23608 or by clicking HERE.