Billy W. Putnam

NEWPORT NEWS - Billy W. Putnam passed away on October 5, 2013 at the age of 72 from complications related to recovery from serious vascular surgery. He leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Beverly Putnam; his stepchildren, Bob Nipp & Gina Perez; his daughter-in-law, Arlene Nipp; 4 grandchildren (Charles Ryan, Abigail, Noah and Aaron Nipp); his brother, Wally Putnam; his sisters, Janet Lewis & Karen Snow; many nephews; & his great nephew, Joshua, with whom he had a very special connection. He also leaves behind his beloved shelter dog, Lady, the most spoiled canine in Virginia. Perhaps you saw Billy driving Lady every Friday to get her hamburger treat from Sonic or McDonald's. Billy appreciated the simple pleasures in his life: Auburn Football, Ham Radio (N6VF, W3EL), Pulliam's Barbeque, electronics, computers, golf, time with family & Lady. Bill was often quiet about his accomplished military career. He served in the US Navy through 7 tours in Vietnam, as an A4 & A7 attack pilot. With over 800 carrier landings & 400 missions, Billy was recognized via 4 Distinguished Flying Crosses as a true asset to our country. He eventually adjusted to life on the ground & driving a car, much less of a rush than his Navy jets. Billy graduated from Hanes High School in Winston-Salem, then Auburn University in 1982 with an MBA. He then continued his government service with the Social Security Administration in Baltimore, MD. Billy was born & raised in Winston-Salem, NC, with an upbringing in the Fairview Moravian Church. He traveled the world with the military, resided in Maryland for over 20 years & then Newport News, VA, after retirement. In lieu of a funeral service or flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project (http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org). War Eagle, Bill! You will be missed.