Elizabeth Cockman Thomas

Mrs. Elizabeth June Cockman Thomas, 80, of Carthage, passed away Friday, March 18, 2022 at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, with all three of her children by her side.

A native of Moore County she was the daughter of the late June Atlas Cockman and Mary Dunlap Cockman both of Robbins, NC. 

“Libby” as her family affectionately referred to her was a graduate of Elise High School in Robbins, NC. She also graduated with her associates in nursing from Sandhills Community College and received her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Florida State University. She served as a hospital registered nurse in both Moore and Lee Counties. Additionally, Elizabeth was a passionate public servant working as a public health nurse for the state of North Carolina for most of her career. She won many awards and accolades for her vigorous efforts on behalf of children’s public health.

Libby and her husband, James lived in many different countries as James worked in foreign embassies during his career in the US Army.  Growing up as a small town country girl, and leaving Robbins at age 18 didn’t stop her from quickly learning how to serve and socialize with many foriegn and local dignitaries. In her early 20’s she was serving dinner to President Lyndon B. Johnson and many other world leaders while living in Finland.

Libby accomplished many things in her life but nothing was more important to her than her family, all of whom will miss her greatly.

She was predeceased by her husband James L. Thomas, her sister, Mary Janice Palagruto and grandson Logan Thomas. 

She is survived by her children: Christopher Thomas of Carthage; Scott Thomas and wife Bobbie Jo of Seagrove; and June Davis and husband Timothy of Carthage;  sisters Dr. Lorna Cockman Clack of Carthage, NC, Dr. Dianah Cockman Bradshaw of Jacksonville, FL; brother Dr. Daniel Atlas “D.A.” Cockman and wife Janie of Climax, NC and brother-in-law, Domenic Anthony Palagruto of Elkton, MD; grandchildren Nicole Davis, Daniel Davis,  Dylan Thomas and wife Emily, Sarah Margaret Thomas and Norah Elizabeth Thomas; two great grandchildren Rowan Corey and Sophie Mae Thomas.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Tuesday at First Baptist Church in Carthage where she was a long time member and taught Sunday School most of her adult life. Pastor Brian Murphy will officiate the service. A private family committal service will follow. The family will receive friends at Fry & Prickett Funeral Home on Monday from 6:00-8:00 and other times at the home.

Memorials may be made to; Make a Wish Foundation at https://wish.org

Services entrusted to Fry & Prickett Funeral Home in Carthage. 

Online condolences may be made at PinesFunerals.com.