Billy Ray Smith

Mr. Billy Ray Smith, 80, of Mount Airy, passed away Thursday morning, January 23, 2025, at his home. Mr. Smith was born May 12, 1944, in Surry County, the son of the late Roby Anderson and Sarah Elizabeth Golding Smith. Billy worked for many years at Pine State Knitwear, where his dedication and hard work made a lasting impact on his colleagues and the company. His years of service were marked by a strong work ethic and a willingness to always lend a helping hand. After leaving from Pine State Knitwear, Billy continued his career at Renfro Corporation. A member of New Bethel Baptist Church, Billy enjoyed finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Wanda Faye Watts Smith; a daughter and son-in-law, Angela and Blain Bryant; a son and daughter-in-law, Adam and Heather Smith; his grandchildren, Drew and Shelly Bryant, Joshua and Jenna Smith, and Landon Smith; his great-grandchildren, Jameson Smith and Emmett Bryant; three stepchildren; several stepgrandchildren; several great-stepgrandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mr. Smith was preceded in death by three sisters, Florence Coalson, Hazel, and an infant; and six brothers, Hurley Smith, Glenn Smith, Clarence Vestal Smith, Claude Roland Smith, Crissie M. Smith, and Bobby Gray Smith. The funeral service will be held Monday, January 27, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Mount Airy, with the Rev. Jimmy McCraw officiating. Burial will follow at Skyline Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends Monday from 10:00 until 11:00 AM at the funeral home.