Billy Thomas Funderburk

Billy Thomas Funderburk, 80, stepped over the threshold to heaven, walking into the loving arms of Jesus on June 2, 2014. He joined his parents Bogue Thomas and Willard Moore Funderburk, stepmother Flay Gaddy Funderburk, and sister Julia Funderburk Stegall.

Billy grew up in rural Union County where he learned to farm his family land and acquired carpentry skills at a young age, which enabled him to pay for his college education. Billy attended Union High School in Monroe, enjoying attending many reunions as a proud member of the class of 1952. Following graduation he entered State College (now NCSU), where his education was interrupted by his draft into the U.S. Army. While serving two years of active duty in the area of electronic communications, he developed a love for electronics. He returned to State College to pursue a degree in Electrical Engineering where he also served as President of the Baptist Student Union. After graduating, he entered the field of electronic design and sales, later forming his own company, B.T. Funderburk, Inc., continuing his career in sales until his retirement.

Billy was a charter member of Christ Baptist Church in Raleigh, where he used his talents in woodworking to craft the cross pulpit, wall cross, communion table and other items for the original sanctuary. He served as President of the Board of Camp Oak Hill for many years, and continued to be active on the Board of Advisors until his death. He was a member of Bible Study Fellowship for several years where he made life long Christian friends.

Billy enjoyed spending time deep sea fishing with his four sons and was very involved in supporting their education and sports activities. He enjoyed serving as PTA president and participating on Parent Advisory Councils where his children attended high school and college. In retirement, he continued his passion for woodworking and left many cherished pieces of furniture for his family and friends. His greatest joy was spending time with his “ten Funderburk grandchildren” and running his model trains for them to enjoy.

Left to cherish precious memories of his life are his wife of 48 years, Elaine Collins Funderburk; his four sons and their families including William Thomas, wife Dawn, and daughters Macon, Kelly and Peyton; Bennett Parker, wife Sharon, and children Hamilton, Maggie and Emma Ruth; Richard Collins, wife Denise, and sons Noah and Cayden; and Patrick Moore, wife Emily, and sons Patrick, jr, and Blackwell. Other surviving relatives include Ken and Janet Collins Funderburk of Mint Hill, Jimmy Stegall of Monroe, and Bob and Frances Collins of Monroe, along with many nieces and nephews.

The service of celebration of Billy’s life will be held at Christ Baptist Church, 400 Newton Road, Raleigh, 27615 at 2:00 pm on Thursday, June 5th and will be immediately followed by interment at Raleigh Memorial Park. The family will see visitors prior to the service at 12:30 pm at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Christ Baptist Church or Camp Oak Hill & Retreat Center, 3824 Barrett Drive, Raleigh, NC 27609.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalm 116:15