News Summary
The Knoxville community mourns the passing of Bro. Billy R. Thomas, affectionately known as ‘Pops’, at 76. A devoted family man, Vietnam veteran, and community servant, his legacy of love and service will be remembered. A public memorial is planned for January 22, 2025, to celebrate his life and contributions.
Knoxville, TN – Remembering a Pillar of the Community
On January 9, 2025, Knoxville lost a true gem of the community. Bro. Billy (Bill) R. Thomas, who was 76 years old, passed away peacefully at Parkwest Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family and close friends. Known affectionately as “Pops” to his family, Bill was a man who had truly lived a life vibrant and full of purpose.
A Family Man Above All
Bill, or “Big Brother” as his siblings called him, was more than just a father; he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared special bonds with everyone he met, earning various nicknames depending on who you asked. While his children called him “Pops”, his coworkers at Tennessee Valley Authority fondly referred to him as “Billy Ray”, and his cousins kept it simple with “B.T.” His wife, Rev. M. Beatrice Thomas, simply called him “Bill.”
Legacy of Service
Bill retired from the Tennessee Valley Authority in 2009 after dedicating over 30 years as a boilermaker at the Kingston Steam Plant. His retirement didn’t keep him from being active—he joined a group humorously known as R.O.M.E.O (Retired Old Men Eating Out), where he enjoyed good food and laughter with his fellow retirees.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was also a Vietnam War veteran, serving with honor and achieving the rank of Specialist 5 before his discharge in 1971. His commitment extended into his spiritual life as well. Bill was a licensed exhorter in the Maryville District of the Tennessee Annual Conference of the A.M.E. Zion Denomination and played an integral role in his wife’s pastoral ministry at Williams Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church.
A Spiritual Leader
Bill was not only a community servant but also a spiritual beacon for his family. He encouraged prayer and gratitude during family gatherings, cultivating a sense of togetherness and love that will be sorely missed. His community work extended to the correctional ministry, where he taught “Malachi Dad” to male detainees, helping to guide them with his wisdom and compassion until his illness took its toll.
A Loving Family Left Behind
Bill’s family includes his beloved wife, Rev. M. Beatrice Thomas, sons Keith Thomas and Michael Thomas, daughter Tanetta Hamilton, and a wonderful array of siblings who will miss him dearly. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Marcus, Shantayah, DeAndre, Kambria, Avery, Shayla, Kamari, Taeshaune, Tremaine, and a host of great-grandchildren, including Isaiah, Aaliyah, Jenniah, Camden, and Nico.
Public Memorial and Celebration
The family expresses heartfelt gratitude for all the support they’ve received during this challenging time. A gathering of friends will take place on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Weatherford Mortuary, with a Celebration of Life following immediately at 4:00 PM. A repast will follow at Spurgeon Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, where many of Bill’s friends and family members will share fond memories.
For those who wish to honor Bill’s memory, donations can be made to the Knoxville Area Rescue Ministry, a cause he cherished deeply. Interment is planned for Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the East Tennessee State Veterans’ Cemetery.
A Heartfelt Farewell
As we remember Bill, let’s celebrate a life dedicated to family, faith, and service. He leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire everyone who knew him. Rest in peace, Bro. Billy R. Thomas; you will always be in our hearts.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Knox News: Obituary for Bro. Billy R. Thomas
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Knox News: Obituary of a Local Resident
- Google Search: Community Service
- Knox News: Community Leader Remembered
- Google Scholar: Legacy of Service
- Knox News: Remembering a War Veteran
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vietnam War
- Knox News: A Life of Faith and Community
- Google News: Spiritual Leadership
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
