Cherished husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and brother passed away after a short illness on February 10, 2026, in Murphy, NC. Bill was born in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin on October 15, 1947. Shortly afterwards his family moved to Florida where he spent most of his growing years, enjoyed boating, skiing, and working around the marina. In 1966 he joined the Navy making it his career for 20 years and retiring as a Naval Chief Officer. In his later years he returned to school to follow his strong passion for God to earn a Doctor of Ministry degree. He retired and spent the last 15 years living in North Carolina enjoying the scenery and changing seasons.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Brill Thomas and Vernett Agnes Thomas. Bill will be truly missed by his wife, Janit Thomas, two sons Michael and Kevin, two grandsons Patrick and Dakota, great grandson Emmett, and two great granddaughters Deliah and Genevieve. Also, by his two sisters Janice Mintzer and Jeanine Robertson.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of William Thomas; you may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranmcdaniel.com.