Billie Gray (Thomas) Lassiter

Billie T. Lassiter “Billie Gray”, 80, of Statesville, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully Sunday, December 29, 2019 at her home.

Billie Gray was born to the late Grayson Columbus Thomas and Dora Johnson Thomas on December 10, 1939 in Burlington, NC.  She was a 1958 graduate of Walter M. Williams High School in Burlington, where she backed the Bulldogs as a member of the Varsity Cheerleading squad. She went on to graduate from Watts School of Nursing in Durham, NC in 1961.

On May 27, 1962, Billie Gray married her high school sweetheart, Thomas Michael Lassiter, who preceded her in death on October 9, 2012. Early in their marriage, she worked as a registered nurse at Blowing Rock Hospital and the UNC Chapel Hill Infirmary while Mike finished his law degree. For nearly 60 years, she selflessly cared for her family while perfecting the art of homemaking in every way, especially her famous pound cake and sweet tea recipes.

Billie Gray was a member of Broad Street United Methodist Church of Statesville and a dedicated volunteer with Meals On Wheels of Iredell County.

A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, Billie Gray’s proudest accomplishments and greatest joys were her four children and 11 grandchildren, who all lovingly called her “Grammy”. She was an avid reader, fierce bridge player, smooth shagger and played the piano beautifully. She particularly treasured time spent with friends “The Pigs”, "Nursing Pals" and family at Pawleys Island.

She is survived by four children, T. Michael Lassiter, Jr. (Kate) of Davidson, NC, Sydney L. Lowe (James) of Raleigh, NC, Laura L. Kriofske (Kris) of Winston-Salem, NC, Sarah L. Mason (Matt) of Winston-Salem, NC; 11 grandchildren, Grace, Erin and Michael Lassiter III, Grayson, Charlotte and Lucy Lowe, Isabel, Anna and Scarlett Kriofske and Billie Gray and Jake Mason; her sister, Barbara T. Harris of Greenville, SC and a number of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Broad Street United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 11th at 3:00 pm. The family will receive friends Friday, January 10th 4-6:00 pm at the home and Saturday following the service at the church.

Memorials may be made to Meals on Wheels of Iredell County, Broad Street United Methodist Church or charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.troutmanfuneralhome.com

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family of Billie Gray Lassiter.

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