Joseph Walter “Joe” Thomas, 75, of Roanoke Rapids died Saturday, May 28, 2022 at ECU Health North Hospital.

Joe was born February 5, 1947 in Wilson County, the son of Hubert Roland Thomas and Margaret Jane Bullock Thomas, whom Joe loved dearly.  They preceded him in death.

Joe was a retired firefighter from the City of Roanoke Rapids.   He loved his dogs more than anything and was a fan of NASCAR racing and Duke Blue Devils basketball.  He also enjoyed going to concerts, the beach, and watching The Young and Restless.

Joe is survived by his long time companion Lisa Proctor; his daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and William Newsome; and his grandson, Grayson Thomas Newsome.

The memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr. Joe Thomas will be held at 4:00 pm Thursday, June 2, 2022 in the Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service chapel, with Pastor Jason Yeatts, RRFD Chaplain, presiding.  Friends may visit with the family following the service.

The online guest register may be signed at hockadayfs.com

Please consider memorial donations to either the NC Fallen Firefighters Foundation, PO Box 68, Bahama, NC 27503, or to Rainbow Animal Rescue, PO Box 972, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870.

Arrangements are under the care of Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service.