Billy Thomas' Obituary
Billy Austin Thomas died on February 15, 2025, at the age of 91 after several years of declining health. Bill was predeceased by his parents Arlie and Elma Thomas of Jackson Springs, NC, his brother Bob Thomas (Lena) of Tallahassee, FL, and sister Brenda Scott (David) of Huntersville, NC.
Bill served in the army as a paratrooper for two years and was stationed at Ft. Bragg. He attended Appalachian State University, earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education. Bill had a thirty-year career in education, working as a dedicated elementary school teacher and principal. After retiring, Bill and his wife Ruth moved back to North Carolina in 2003.
Bill and Ruth had a long marriage of 71 years, having been high school sweethearts. They have three children, Deborah (Ralph), Danny (Nancy), and Brian (Jean). Bill was a loving husband, father, grandfather of five, and great-grandfather of seven.
Bill particularly enjoyed watching sports, studying history, and the friendship of his Sunday school class members at Mt. Zion Methodist Church. He will be sorely missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill’s name to Mt. Zion Methodist Church on 19600 Zion Avenue in Cornelius, NC 28031.
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