Hal Ragland Thomas Sr.

MURFREESBORO, NC - Hal Ragland Thomas, Sr. a devoted public servant and cherished community leader, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, at the age of 77. Born on May 18, 1948, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Hal dedicated his life to service-both to his country and his beloved town of Murfreesboro.
Hal's life was a testament to the power of commitment and community. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he served his country for 20 years, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. After retiring from military service, Hal continued his dedication to public service by working as a maintenance supervisor with the North Carolina State Prison system in Nash County for a decade. His leadership extended beyond his career, as he actively participated in the planning board of Nashville, NC, shaping the future of his community.
However, it was in Murfreesboro where Hal's legacy truly shines. He devoted countless hours to serving the town in various capacities, including as a member of the planning board and serving 3 terms as councilman. At the time of his passing, he was proudly serving his fourth term as mayor. Hal's passion for improving the town's infrastructure and his tireless efforts to secure funding for vital projects left an indelible mark. His pride and joy, King's Landing, stands as a testament to his vision and dedication. Known affectionately as Murfreesboro's true ambassador, Hal's impact will be felt for generations.
For the past 20 years, Hal also served on the board of the North Carolina Watermelon Festival Inc. Committee, contributing to its success in numerous roles. In 2015 he received an honorary BA degree from Chowan University for above and beyond services. His presence will be dearly missed by his many friends and colleagues, especially his daily coffee club group, who were a cherished part of his routine.
Hal was preceded in death by his late wife, Gail B. Thomas, and his parents, Charles Alexander Gard Thomas III and Lois Sellers Thomas. He leaves behind a loving family: his wife, Kay Mitchell Thomas of Murfreesboro, NC; his daughter, Faye Obenschain (Jeff) of Harrisonburg, VA; his son, Hal R. Thomas Jr. of Rocky Mount, NC; and his daughters, Jennifer Mitchell of Richmond, VA and Christina Mitchell (Fernando Zuniga) of Murfreesboro, NC. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Claudia and Julia "JJ" Obenschain of Harrisonburg, VA, and Camila and Elena Zuniga of Murfreesboro, NC. Hal is also survived by his sister, Patricia Ann Thomas-Jones (David), and brothers, C.A.G. "Cag" Thomas IV (Suzanne), Michael Wayne Thomas (Beth), and Steven Boyce Thomas, along with many nieces and nephews and a herd of cats.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Murfreesboro Baptist Church, 200 Main St., Murfreesboro, NC, on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 2:00 pm, followed by a reception in the church fellowship hall.
Memorial donations may be made directly to Murfreesboro Baptist Church, 200 Main Street, Murfreesboro, North Carolina, 27855 or online by clicking here; or directly to the Town of Murfreesboro Beautification Committee, PO Box 6, Murfreesboro, North Carolina 27855 or online by clicking here; or directly to Chowan University Women's Soccer, One University Place, Murfreesboro, North Carolina 27855 or online by clicking here.
Hal Ragland Thomas's life was a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on their community. His unwavering dedication and love for Murfreesboro will continue to inspire all who knew him.
The Thomas family has entrusted Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Murfreesboro Chapel with the funeral arrangements. The family invites friends and loved ones to leave their condolences at www.garrettsykesfs.com.
The service will be livestreamed. It will begin a few minutes prior to the service time. In the event there are technical difficulties, the recorded service will be uploaded to this obituary. See links to view under "Events" and "Tribute Wall". To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Hal Ragland Thomas, Sr., please visit our floral store.To make a memorial donation, please visit the donations section of this obituary.