Apostle Thomas E. Woolfolk , of Williamsboro Street, transitioned on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Granville Medical Center. He was born in Richmond, VA to the late Samuel Woolfolk and Mary Branch.

Apostle Woolfolk was a remarkable learner and became an autodidact in the truest sense- teaching himself multiple languages, mastering the piano, becoming an accomplished archer, and even earning his pilot's license. He graduated from North Carolina Central University and later earned his Master of Theology from Sacred Heart Seminary. He served the federal government for 21 years as an investigator specializing in labor, unions, and organized crime.

Apostle Woolfolk was among the pioneers of the C hurch O f O ur L ord J esus C hrist. In 1970, he was elevated to the bishopric and served and excelled at every level of the church: local, state, regional, and national. For 46 years, Apostle served as Presiding Bishop of the North Carolina Metropolitan Diocese, and for 43 years, he pastored Refuge Temple in Oxford.

He is survived hy his children: Joy W. Royster (Winfred) and Brent W. Woolfolk both of Oxford; six grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, his spiritual children, extended relatives and caring friends. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mother Mildred Sydnor Woolfolk.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 am, Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Greater Ransom Way of the Cross Temple (90 S Lake Lodge Ext, Henderson, NC 27537) by Apostle Ronnie Parsons. Viewing and Family Visitation will be from 6pm to 8pm Friday, February 6, 2026 at Refuge Temple (311 W Spring St, Oxford, NC 27565)

Interment will be at 1pm, Monday, February 9 at Forest Lawn Cemetery (4000 Pilots Ln, Richmond, VA 23222)