August 22, 2026, 79, – Billy Ray Thomas, 79, passed away suddenly early Saturday morning at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville. Billy Ray was born in Wayne County on November 29, 1946, to the late Robert Bruce Thomas, Sr. and Bertha Pridgen Thomas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Robert Bruce Thomas, Jr. and Gerald Brent Thomas.
For more than 40 years, Billy Ray owned and operated Billy Ray Thomas Backhoe Service. He was the best at what he did, taking great pride in his work and, more importantly, in taking care of people. If someone needed help, Billy Ray was there. He treated those around him like family and never hesitated to lend a hand.
Billy Ray was also a longtime friend and dedicated servant of the Wayne County Fair and served as a board member of the Wayne County Livestock Development Association. He loved the fair and devoted countless hours throughout the years to making it a success. Whether he was working on the grounds, preparing for events, helping with the shows, or simply doing whatever needed to be done, Billy Ray could always be counted on. Many of his kindest acts were done quietly, without seeking recognition or praise. He simply believed in showing up, getting the job done, and helping others along the way.
A man of strong faith, Billy Ray was an active member of Yelverton Methodist Church in Faro, where he served in many roles in honor of God. His faith was not simply something he professed; it was something he lived. Billy Ray showed the love of God through the way he treated others, always willing to serve, encourage, and help whenever he could. He also served for a period of time with the Faro Volunteer Fire Department.
But perhaps one of the best ways to describe Billy Ray was simply to call him a cowboy. He loved horses, loved riding, and loved the Western way of life. Billy Ray and Melody shared that passion and spent many years serving together at the Wayne County Fair in the Western Showcase. For Billy Ray, being around horses and fellow cowboys was more than a pastime—it was a part of who he was.
Billy Ray especially cherished time with his family. Anytime he could gather with those he loved was a blessing to him. He and Melody also enjoyed traveling to Pennsylvania to visit their Amish friends. For more than 30 years, they made those trips, enjoying the simple pleasures of friendship, fellowship, and the life they shared with people who had become like family.
For almost 60 years, Billy Ray and Melody rode through life side by side. Through all of life’s trails, they shared a love that was built on commitment, friendship, family, and faith. Together, they created a life filled with memories that will be treasured forever.
Billy Ray is survived by his beloved wife of almost 60 years, Melody Lane Thomas; daughters, Tina Thomas Holloman and husband, Bo, and Tiffany Thomas Gurkins and husband, Edwin; grandchildren, Trevor Thomas, Kelsey Raye Giglioli and husband, Denis, and Anthony Gurkins; great-grandchildren, Jaxon Thomas, Railee Thomas, Paisley Price, and Ozzy Giglioli; and his soon-to-be-born great-grandson, Mateo Ray Giglioli, whose arrival Billy Ray was eagerly anticipating. He is also survived by his sisters, Betsy Yelverton and Beth Kelly and husband, Kevin; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Lisa and Perry Teachey; sisters-in-law, Jane Thomas and Mable Thomas; and many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know and love him.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home, followed by a service to celebrate Billy Ray’s life at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel, with Pastor Greg Moser officiating. Interment will be on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in Pike Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Billy Ray’s memory to Yelverton Methodist Church, in care of Pam Smith, 3927 US Hwy 13 North, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
Billy Ray spent his life working hard, serving others, loving his family, and enjoying the simple beauty of a life well lived. He never needed a spotlight to make a difference. Like a true cowboy, he was steady in the saddle, faithful to his word, and always willing to ride alongside someone who needed him.
And now, after a long and faithful ride, Billy Ray has answered the call to head home.
Ride easy, Cowboy. Your work here is done. Until we meet again, may you rest peacefully in the arms of your Savior.
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