Billy Joe Thomas, age 76, of Rutherfordton, died Monday, May 15, 2017, at Hospice House of Rutherford County. He was a native of Mitchell County, NC and the son of the late Fonzer Thomas and the late Agnes McClellan Thomas. He was a member of and retired Pastor of Morning Star Baptist Church. Billy was a loving father and grandfather. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by one brother Alan Thomas. He is survived by his wife: Glennette Thomas. Two Daughters: Deborah Jones and husband Shannon, Kim Cook and husband Toby Two Sons: Michael Thomas and wife Janice, Aaron Thomas One Sister: Rosanna McSwain and husband James One Brother: Dale Thomas Ten Grandchildren Seven Great-Grandchildren The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday, May 16, 2017 at McMahan's Funeral Home. The funeral service will be at McMahan's Funeral Home Chapel at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, May 17, 2017 with Reverend James Smith and Reverend Danny McCain officiating. Interment will be at Morning Star Baptist Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of Rutherford County at P.O. Box 336 Forest City, NC 28043.