Thomas Ray Sykes, 64, of Watha completed his earthly life's journey on Friday, February 8, 2013 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. He is now resting in the arms of Jesus.

He was born April 7, 1948 in Wilmington, the son of the late John Thomas and Gladys Horrell Sykes.

Thomas is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Annette Francis Sykes; sons, William Thomas Sykes (Jennifer) of Watha and Michael Ray Sykes of Burgaw; grandchildren, Krystal Sykes, who Thomas called "Turkey Bird", Bobby Canady (Brittany) and Shelby Canady; his best friend and companion, Rebel Dakota Sykes; brothers, James Sykes (JoAnn), David Sykes (Joyce), John Sykes, and Mark Sykes (Jenny) all of Watha; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Thomas served his country honorably in the US Navy and was retired from General Electric Company in Castle Hayne. He attended Cora's Grove Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church. Thomas was a longtime member of the NRA.

Thomas was a devoted husband and a loving husband, daddy, granddaddy, brother and friend who dedicated his life to caring for his family. Thomas' quiet faith and thankfulness for his many blessings spoke clearly to family and friends. Since retirement he has spent much time working on old tractors, gardening and traveling to the mountains with his wife and Rebel. Thomas was loved for his compassion for others, joy in life, and spontaneous laughter, thus, affectionately called Papa and Daddy by not only his family, but his extended family and many friends. A last gift Thomas made in this world was the gift of sight to another person. He will be remembered as a gentle, kind man who loved God, family and country. Thomas will be truly missed.

Funeral service will be at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 10, 2013 at Cora's Grove P.F.W.B. Church with the Rev. Randy Little and the Rev. W. E. Smith officiating.

The family will receive friends at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday at the church until hour of the service.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to Cora's Grove P.F.W.B. Church, 4875 Cora's Grove Road, Watha, NC 28478.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Funeral service will be at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 10, 2013 at Cora's Grove P.F.W.B. Church with the Rev. Randy Little and the Rev. W. E. Smith officiating.

The family will receive friends at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday at the church until hour of the service.