Billy Joe Bunch

Billy Joe Bunch, 91, of Candler, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025. He was born on December 2, 1933, in Wallins Creek, Kentucky, to the late Arch and Cora Bunch.

Billy Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Mary Jo Bunch, and together they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and faith. He was the proud father of Jeffrey Bunch (Ginny) and Michelle Wood (Otto). His grandchildren—Brittany Bunch (Mark Ratway), Brooke Bunch, Dylan Wood (Claudia), Savana Wood, and Sloan Wood—were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment with them. He also adored his great-grandchildren, Samuel and Callum Ratway, who brought him so much joy in his later years.

In his younger years, Billy Joe proudly served his country and played football for the United States Army. Following his service, he went on to work for many years with General Motors, where he served as a supervisor and led a crew assembling Cadillacs, and ultimately retired from General Motors. He was respected for his strong work ethic, leadership, and dedication to his team.

A true outdoorsman, Billy Joe enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golf. He also gave back to his community through his love of sports, spending 10 years coaching little league football and baseball, where he made a lasting impact on many young lives.

He is survived by his brothers France, Mack, and Mike Bunch. He was preceded in death by his brothers James, Leon, Ray, and Ernie Bunch, and his sisters Mary Thacker and Phillis Ann Turner. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.

A funeral service honoring his life will be held at Groce Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with Jamie Johnson and Jeff Hudson officiating. Interment will follow the service. Pallbearers will be Jeffrey Bunch, Otto Wood, Dylan Wood, Joey Bowman, Mark Ratway, and Robert Anderson.

Billy Joe’s life was defined by faith, hard work, and devotion to his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and service that will continue to guide those he loved for generations to come.

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.