Hello havelfil, sorry was not able to resolve this issue. After upgrading WP, removing all malware, backing up and restoring website, and following all suggested tips, issue remains. Have decided that because i am using a theme that is now archived (no support) and using a prior version of WP, there is code that disallows the customizer function, I going to upgrade the website with a new supportable theme. Then I will know if this issue is still a problem.