Billy Ray Mathis

Mr. Billy Ray Mathis, 87, passed away Sunday, April 03, 2016 at Forsyth Medical Center. Mr. Mathis was born April 29, 1928 in Surry County to Sam and Nora Simmons Mathis. He was a member of Swaims Baptist Church. Mr. Mathis enjoyed woodworking and gardening. In addition to his parents, Mr. Mathis was preceded in death by his wife, Essie Mae Swaim Mathis; two brothers, Garland and Carl Mathis; and two sisters, Naomi Mathis and Veo Mathis. He is survived by two children, Otis (Henrietta) Mathis and Sylvia Mathis; four grandchildren, Marty Mathis, Sheri (Chris) Spicer, Jason (Misty) Moose, and Elisha Moose; five great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; a daughter-in-law, Misun "Sunny" Mathis; a special friend and neighbor, Brian Jessup; and his K-9 companion, Tiny. A funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, April 5, 2016 at 2:00PM at Swaims Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Shelton officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6:00 to 8:00PM at Gentry Funeral Service in Yadkinville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Swaims Baptist Church, 3919 Swaims Church Rd, Hamptonville, NC 27020. Online condolences may be made at www.gentryfuneralservice.com. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Mathis family.