William Ernest "Billy" Lewis, affectionately known throughout the community as "Chilly Billy," passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, at the age of 65.

Born on Valentine's Day in 1961, Billy was the youngest of five children born to Levin Thomas “LT” Lewis Sr. and Ernestine "Sue" Lewis in River Forest Shores, Norfolk, Virginia. From the very beginning, he had a personality that was impossible to ignore. He was funny, stubborn, incredibly talented, and never met a stranger. If you knew Billy, you probably have a story about him... and chances are, it's a good one.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Levin Thomas “LT” Lewis Sr. and Ernestine "Sue" Lewis, his brother Levin "Tommy" Lewis Jr., and his sister Constance "Connie" McDonnell.

He leaves behind the greatest joy of his life, his daughter, Clairissa “Clair” Lewis. He is also survived by his sisters, Cynthia Griffin (Albert) of Ocean City, Maryland, and Betty Bigney (Vernon) of Tobaccoville, North Carolina, along with several nieces and nephews who loved him dearly: Dominic Kerchner (Chau) of Laurel, Maryland; Amber Crouse (Donnie) of Tobaccoville, North Carolina; Tamara Janney (James) of Catonsville, Maryland; and Tom Harrison (Dana) of Virginia Beach, Virginia; along with several cherished great-nieces and great-nephews.

Billy was hilarious, honest to a fault, and never sugarcoated anything. If he loved you, you knew it. If he thought you were wrong, you knew that too. Beneath his tough exterior was a loyal heart, and if you needed him, he was there... no questions asked.

There wasn't much Billy couldn't build, fix, or figure out. He turned that gift into a career by starting Billy Lewis HVAC Services, Inc., building the business from the ground up through hard work, determination, and plenty of long days. Alongside his longtime friend and trusted helper, Matt Hassell, he built a company that became well known throughout the Tidewater area. His slogan, "If you are or ain't chilly, call Billy," became known throughout the community and was just as unforgettable as he was.

Billy also looked forward to the Chesapeake Rotary Christmas Parade every year, where his homemade floats became local favorites. He loved making people smile and never passed up an opportunity to do something creative for his community.

Before building his HVAC business, Billy made a name for himself on the softball field, helping lead his teams to Virginia State Championships in 1989, 1992, and 1994, along with numerous tournament titles. And for many years, you rarely saw Billy without his beloved pit bull, Ms. Marley, faithfully riding shotgun by his side. She wasn't just his dog... she was his best friend, sidekick, and constant companion. More than anything else, Billy loved his family. He especially adored his mother, affectionately known as "Momadukes," and carried her memory with him every day after she was gone.

Billy lived life exactly the way he wanted. He worked hard, laughed often, loved fiercely, and wasn't afraid to speak his mind. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, countless laughs and a legacy built on hard work, loyalty, generosity, and authenticity. There will never be another Chilly Billy and those lucky enough to know him will never forget him.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, 7/18, 1pm to 5pm, at Deep Creek Ruritan Club, 200 Luray Street, Chesapeake, VA 23323.

Simply Cremation is assisting Billy’s family with the arrangements.