Wiley S. Thomas

Wiley Simpson Thomas, of Forest City, son of the late Lamb Burton Thomas and Clara Harper Thomas, returned home to be with Jesus on August 18, 2025. He was 88 years old. Wiley worked for the NCDMV for most of his career, working as an Examiner, a Hearings Officer, and a Chief Hearings Officer. After he retired, he worked with Rutherford County Sheriff Department’s R U OK? Program for Senior Citizens. He was active in church and was ordained as a minister, filling in when needed.

He was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-nine years, Barbara Thomas; infant daughter, Sherry Lynn Thomas; three sisters, Doris Leigh, Sarah Tindall, Brenda Van Dusen, and infant brother (Donald) and sister (Eleanor).

Left to cherish his memory are daughter Lori Benfield (Michael), of Forest City, son Wiley Daniel Thomas (Kellie), of Rutherfordton, two granddaughters, Lauren Benfield (fiancé Drew) and Emily Thomas; two brothers, Carroll Thomas and Harold Thomas, both of Snow Hill, NC, and a number of beloved nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be conducted at 5:00 pm on Saturday, August 23rd at the Restoration Church of Forest City with Reverend Paul Lane and Reverend Ronnie Robbins officiating. Interment will follow at Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 3:30 until 5:00 pm at the church prior to service time.