July 9, 2026, 60, Mount Olive – Thomas Brock Averill passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the Mt. Olive Center in Mt. Olive. Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, he was the beloved son of the late John Page Averill, Sr. and Shirley Ann Cotton Mason Averill. He is also preceded in death by his brother, John Averill, Jr.
Thomas lived a life defined by hard work, laughter, and a deep love for those closest to him. He shared a unique bond as a triplet with his brother, James Averill, and his sister, Trish Smith (Allen) of Goldsboro—a connection that remained a treasured part of his life.
A dedicated worker, Thomas spent many years in the packing department at Carolina Packers and also pursuing a career driving eighteen-wheelers. He found joy in the trucking industry, where the open road gave him the opportunity to travel and experience new places.
While Thomas valued his career, nothing meant more to him than his family. He was a loving father to his daughters, Ashleigh Faith Averill of Goldsboro and Megan Brook Averill of Chapel Hill. His greatest joy was being a grandpa to his cherished granddaughter, Jaynee Miller of Goldsboro, whose presence brought endless happiness and pride to his life. The time they spent together created memories that will forever be treasured.
Thomas also leaves behind his brother, Whitney Averill of Hampstead; his sisters, Christina Averill Allen (Andy) of Omaha, Nebraska, and Denia Johansen of Hampstead; his sister-in-law, Debbie Averill of New Port Richey, Florida; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him greatly.
Those who knew Thomas will remember his kind heart and wonderful sense of humor. He had a gift for making people laugh and believed that a smile—or at least a good laugh—could brighten even the hardest day. Ironically, while he loved making others smile, he was never particularly fond of smiling for the camera. He loved animals and treasured the companionship of his two granddogs, Milo and Jack, who always held a special place in his heart.
Thomas was also an avid football fan whose loyalty to the New England Patriots remained steadfast through every season. Whether cheering from the couch or discussing the latest game with family and friends, football was one of the many simple pleasures that brought him happiness.
Although Thomas’s passing leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy lives on in the love he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the memories he created with everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered not only for his hardworking spirit but for his generosity, his humor, and the unwavering love he had for his family. His life was a reminder that the greatest gifts we leave behind are the moments we share and the love we give.
The family is receiving friends on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home.
Thomas will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to be serving the Averill family.
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