Billy Frank Thomas

Billy Frank Thomas, 67, of New York, passed away on October 1, 2025. Billy was born on April 26, 1958, in Penn Yan, NY, to William and Betty (Parsons) Thomas. He married his high school sweetheart, Kathy Tongue, on February 16, 1980, and they shared a deep and enduring bond.
Billy will be remembered for his big, outgoing personality and the love he had for staying connected with his extended family. A devoted husband, he cared for Kathy with unwavering dedication, especially in recent years, providing her with around-the-clock care and love.
A talented country music artist, Billy wrote and performed his own original songs. He was an excellent guitar player and proud of his extensive guitar collection. He and Kathy shared a love for treasure hunting at weekend rummage sales, and they were inseparable in everything they did, from playing Bingo to traveling to the casino. Billy was also an ailurophile, meaning he was a lover of cats.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Thomas; cousins: David Wilcox of Corning and Dan (Gale) Wilcox of Oregon; special niece; Sheila Allen of Bath; close friends: Deborah and Elliott Martin of Painted Post; cousins: Beverly Adams of Horseheads and Donna Plumley of Florida along with many other cousins and extended family.
Billy was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Daniel Lavigne.
Family and friends are invited to call at Phillips Funeral Home, 17 W. Pulteney Street, Corning, NY on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 from 11:00am-Noon. A funeral service will immediately follow with Pastor Isaac Howe officiating. Burial will be in West Hill Cemetery in Hornby. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Billy, please visit our Tree Store.