Billy T. Proffitt, 84, of Salem, Va., passed away on Thursday, May 19, 2016, at Lewis-Gale Medical Center.

Born in Tip Top, Va., he was the son of the late William and Edrie Proffitt. Before moving to Salem in 1963, Billy lived in Tip Top for several years while employed as a pipefitter with Norfolk & Western Railroad in Bluefield, W.Va. He later became the General Chairman of the Sheet and Metal Worker’s Association and subsequently the Retired International Representative for the Sheet Metal Workers International Association, having received a 50-year commendation in 2004.

Billy was one of the last self-made men having taught himself to weld, repair televisions, wire homes, repair chlorinators, and become a Jack-of-all-trades.

Billy was a member of Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons, D. C. Shanks Royal Arch Chapter No. 31, Roanoke Valley Shrine Club, Bayard Commandery No. 15 Knights Templar, Alpha Star Council 71, Greeter for Shriners and Taylor Lodge No. 23 A.F. and A.M.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother-in-law, Frank Lawson; and an uncle, Albert Proffitt.

His surviving family includes his wife, Millie Proffitt; children, Linda Proffitt, Thomas Proffitt and special friend, Jackie Sarver, Regina Huffman and husband, Mike, and Steve Proffitt and wife, Lisa; siblings, Juanita Lawson, Betty Kennedy and husband, Leland, and Ron Proffitt and wife, Helen; grandchildren, Michelle Lemon and husband, Adam, Billy Huffman and wife, Erin, Craig Proffitt and wife, Ashley, and Samantha Smart and husband, Tanner; great-grandchildren, Makayla Lemon, Seth Lemon, Julius Huffman, Keegan Huffman, and Aria Proffitt. He is also survived by extended family including a cousin/brother, Harold Bowman and special friend, Wanda; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, May 22, 2016 in the John M. Oakey & Son Chapel in Salem. A funeral service will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 23, 2016, also in the chapel, with Rev. Ken Dupin and Dave Vanderpool officiating. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Kazim Shriners, made payable to Shriners Hospital for Children, at 628 Campbell Avenue in Roanoke, Va. 24016. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.