Thomas Garland Gudac

Thomas Garland Gudac, 81, passed away peacefully on October the 14th, 2026. Born on March 12, 1945, in Goldsboro, North Carolina, he was the son of the late Andy and Beulah Gudac and graduated high school with the Micro class of 1963. He continued his education at Wilson Technical College with a degree in Heating and Air.

From an early age, Thomas was known as a true jack of all trades. As a young man, he drove a school bus, gigged for and sold frogs to college labs, enjoyed school sports, and worked at Parkers BBQ, Jones Brothers Furniture Store and on the family farm. It was at a playoff basketball game in 1960 that he met “his Carolyn,” the love of his life. The two were married on June 17, 1965, and later made their home in Wilson, North Carolina, where they built a life centered on faith, family, and service.

When faced with the possibility of being drafted into the Army, Thomas chose instead to join the United States Marine Corps in January 1967. He served honorably during the Vietnam War and was discharged in 1971. His commendations included the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat “V,” Rifle Expert distinction, and the Meritorious Unit Citation of the Cross of Gallantry with Palm. Though his time in Vietnam was one of the most difficult seasons of his life, he carried deep pride in having served his country as a United States Marine.

After returning home, Thomas began a long and successful career in the heating and cooling industry, working many dedicated years with Ihrie Supply and Watsco before his retirement. He was known for his strong work ethic, steady presence, and commitment to doing a job well.

Thomas was deeply involved in his community. He was an active member of the Wilson Jaycees, serving in numerous roles including chairman. At Grace Baptist Church, he faithfully served on the Stewardship Committee, the Buildings and Grounds Committee, and as a church deacon. He was perhaps most recognized in the church’s back parking lot, standing behind his cooker preparing chicken or barbecue for countless fundraisers and fellowship gatherings. He also devoted many years of service to the Baptist Men’s Disaster Relief Team, first serving on the disaster cooking team after Hurricane Katrina, and later helping oversee disaster response team trucks; always ready to lend his hands and heart wherever needed.

In his spare time, Thomas enjoyed working in his yard, taking a ride with the top down on his convertible, camping, playing a round of golf, watching NASCAR, playing cards or cornhole with church friends, and most of all, spending time with his family. His grill and cooker were rarely idle, as he loved preparing barbecue for family reunions and special celebrations.

Thomas is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Carolyn Gudac; his son, Gary Thomas Gudac and wife Beth of Asheville, NC; and his daughter, Suzette Gibson and husband Dr. Leonard Gibson of Wilson, NC. He was a proud grandfather to Taylor Gudac, Dylan Thomas Gudac and wife Caroline, Grace Gibson, Blythe Gibson, and Henry Gibson. He is also survived by his siblings Mary Aker (Chris), Anthony Gudac (Jennifer), and Tim Gudac (Julie); his dear aunt, Mary Bailey; and numerous beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers who walked alongside Thomas during his courageous battle with dementia, including Lorie, Marra, Harley, Keyoka, Tammy, the Durham VA 9B staff, and the staff at Snow Hill Assisted Living Memory Care. We would also like to thank Mickey and the Greenville VA community Care team, and all of the staff at Pruitt Hospice. Your compassion and dedication brought comfort and dignity during his final years.

A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Grace Baptist Church, 202 Kincaid Avenue N, Wilson. Entombment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park, Wilson. Rev. Steve Strickland will officiate.

The family will receive Sunday prior to the service from 2 – 2:45 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church, Wilson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Thomas’ memory to Grace Baptist Church Building Fund or to Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Dav.org

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.