Billy "Catfish" Ray Whitby, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 24, 2024, surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and love.
Born on July 28, 1957, to the late Fannie Braswell Whitby and Percy Whitby, Billy was a beacon of joy and humor throughout his life.
Billy, known to some as "Catfish Whitby," was the life of every gathering, always ready with a joke and a contagious sense of humor that brightened the room.
He was preceded in death by his sisters, Rosa Blythe and Edna Thorpe.
He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Carol Ann Tritt Whitby of Roanoke Rapids, NC, who stood by his side through his tough and lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer.
Together they formed their very own Brady Bunch family, blending his three children with her own three children.
Billy's children include Billy Ray Whitby, Jr., of Whitakers, NC, Tammy Daniele (Anthony) of Summerville, SC, and Angela Whitby (Allen) of Dolphin, VA. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Angelique Alvarez (Marcelo) of Phoenix, AZ, David
Shaw (Stephanie) of Kansas City, MO, and Julie Powell (Keith) of Henrico, NC.
Billy was a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren, Renee Shaw, Destiny Whitby, Trin Harber, Steven Webb (Brittney), Brittany Gosney (Josh), Hannah Turner (Ray), Danie Harber, Dillion Whitby, Kameron Powell (Caroline), Colby Powell (Bryanna), Kelly Whitby, Lily Whitby, and Paisley Whitby.
Additionally, he had 13 great-grandchildren, including Easton, Rowan, Oliver, Ava, Addie, Payton, Aspen, Christopher, Raymond, Sophia, Jameson, Aubrey, and Elizabeth.
He is also survived by his brothers, Jessie (Alice), Richard, Jimmy (Fay), Percy, Tommy, and sister, Alice, along with sister-in-law, Maxine (Dale) and several nieces and nephews.
Let's not forget his beloved Grandpup, Atta, whom he lovingly nicknamed Ju. Billy had a passion for his fur babies, including Rimshot, Dolly, and Sam, who have passed on.
He grew up in Emporia, VA, and later settled in Roanoke Rapids, NC, where he found love and happiness with Carol. Billy had many hobbies that brought him joy, including fishing, where he once proudly caught a blue catfish weighing 85 pounds. He kept busy with yard work, gardening, raising chickens, and shooting pool with his friends. His love for country music was unmatched, with George Jones and Loretta Lynn being his favorite singers. While he enjoyed other genres, country music held a special place in his heart.
In accordance with Billy's wishes, there will be a celebration of life at Weldon Mills Theatre on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. Family and friends are welcome to join in remembering and honoring Billy's life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to the charity of your choice in memory of Billy.
His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, forever remembered for his laughter, love, and larger- than-life personality.
Rest in peace, Catfish Whitby, and may your jokes and stories continue to make people laugh and smile.