Billy Gray Cook

Mr. Billy Gray Cook, 85, of Pilot Mountain, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem. He was born January 3, 1941, in Stokes County, the son of the late Ed Rufus Cook and Alice Inez Lynch Cook.

Billy retired from Surry Telephone Membership Corporation after 27 years of dedicated service. Lovingly known as “Satch” and “Buffet Billy” to those closest to him, Billy had a remarkable zest for life and a gift for bringing laughter wherever he went. With his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor, there was rarely a dull moment when Billy was around. People were naturally drawn to him and genuinely enjoyed his company. Even as his health declined, his wit and sense of humor never left him. He continued to joke, laugh, and bring smiles to those around him.

Billy also had a great love for good food—a love that certainly helped earn him the name “Buffet Billy.” A good hot dog, BBQ, or a hearty bowl of chicken stew were just a few of his favorites. He appreciated a good meal, especially when it was shared with family and friends.

On a beautiful, sunny day, you could often find Billy on his Can-Am, enjoying the breeze and the open road, with Nancy right there beside him—hanging on for dear life! It was just one of the many ways Billy embraced life: with a sense of adventure, a little mischief, and plenty of laughter.

At the heart of Billy’s life was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Collins Cook. Billy and Nancy shared 65 wonderful years together, including 62½ years of marriage—a lifetime filled with love, companionship, family, adventures, and countless treasured memories.

He is also survived by his two daughters, Kimberly Cook Detomo of Raleigh and Tina Cook Bowman (Nathan) of Pilot Mountain; his son, Timmy Cook of Pilot Mountain; five grandchildren, Blake Bowman, Laken Bowman Jessup (Austin), Danyel Detomo, Josie Detomo Sharpe (Alan), and Colin Detomo; and two great-grandchildren, Saylor Grace Jessup and Richard Mario “Richie” Sharpe.

Billy is also survived by his sister, Sarah Anderson (Kent) of Westfield; special friends, James Paul and Bonnie Jessup, several nieces, nephews, and extended family members; and his beloved dog, Toby, whom he absolutely adored.

In addition to his parents, Billy was preceded in death by his two brothers, Delmer Ray Cook and Sandy Cook.

Billy found happiness in so many of life’s simple pleasures—a favorite meal, a good joke, a sunny day, a ride on his Can-Am, and, most importantly, time spent with the people he loved. He lived life with humor and a spirit that remained with him even through the difficult days of declining health.

Those who knew Billy will remember the laughter, the stories, the quick-witted remarks, and the unmistakable personality that made him “Satch” and “Buffet Billy.” His was a life well lived and fully enjoyed, and the memories he created will continue to bring laughter, comfort, and smiles to those who loved him.

A brief graveside service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Westfield Friends Church in Westfield, with the Rev. Ricky Rogers officiating. A Celebration of Life will follow the graveside service at Westfield Baptist Church, where family and friends are invited to gather, share stories and memories, and celebrate a life well lived.