William Justin Cutts

Born on February 12, 1933, Bill lived a life defined by faith, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the promise of tomorrow.

A proud graduate of Auburn University, Bill built a distinguished career in engineering and manufacturing that spanned decades. He served as President and CEO of American Tank & Vessel, Inc., where he devoted the last 44 years of his life. To Bill, the company was more than a business—it was a family. He cared deeply for the people who worked alongside him, taking great pride in their accomplishments and remained actively engaged in the company until just one month before his passing. His leadership, integrity, and vision helped shape American Tank & Vessel into the respected organization it is today.

Bill was especially proud of his engineering and drafting work on the flat-bottom tank that supported the Methane Pioneer, the world's first liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier—a landmark achievement that helped usher in the modern LNG industry. He also took great pride in his work on President Ronald Reagan's Strategic Defense Initiative, better known as the "Star Wars" program, where he contributed his engineering expertise to one of the nation's most ambitious defense initiatives.

Outside the office, Bill embraced life with enthusiasm. He could often be found restoring and wrenching on classic automobiles, sailing the waters of Mobile Bay, enjoying music in Washington Square, or tending his beloved garden. He found joy in creating, building, and nurturing—whether it was a machine, a business, a garden, or the people around him.

Faith was the cornerstone of Bill's life. A devoted Christian, he was active in many churches throughout Mobile over the years, with Government Street Presbyterian Church serving as his spiritual home and anchor. His quiet faith was reflected not only in his words, but in the compassion, generosity, and steadfast character with which he lived each day.

Above all, Bill was devoted to his family. He is survived by his children, William Thomas (Paula) Cutts, Mary Anastasia Cutts (Alan) Easley, Justin Bredar Cutts, and John McDuffie (Kenley) Cutts; and by his cherished grandchildren, Ana Ryan Hoskins, Westleigh Cutts, and Powell Cutts. He leaves behind a family who will forever treasure his wisdom, strength, humor, and unconditional love.

Those who knew Bill will remember a man of exceptional intellect, relentless determination, genuine kindness, and unwavering integrity. Even in his nineties, he continued to lead, mentor, and dream about what tomorrow could bring. His legacy lives on through his family, the countless lives he touched, and the enduring impact of the company and community he helped build.

William J. Cutts lived fully, worked tirelessly, loved deeply, and trusted faithfully. He believed that every day brought a new opportunity to learn, to build, and to serve others. Though he will be profoundly missed, his legacy endures in the family he cherished, the lives he shaped, the company he led, and the example he set. His life was a testament to faith in God, devotion to family, pride in honest work, and an abiding belief in the power of a new day.

A memorial service celebrating Bill's life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Government Street Presbyterian Church in Mobile, Alabama. Condolences may be offered at www.pinecrestfuneralhome.com.