Anne Elizabeth Thomas

Anne Elizabeth (Conklin) Thomas, 73, of Concord, North Carolina, left this world peacefully on May 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with Pick's Disease and Dementia. Born on January 3, 1952, in Westerly, Rhode Island, Anne's gentle and calming presence left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

The daughter of George Harris Conklin and Josephine March (Servidio) Conklin, Anne was raised in Westerly.

Anne excelled in academics, earning her bachelor’s degree from Rhode Island College and a master’s degree in English from Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina.

On September 3, 1977, she married Charles Andrew Thomas, her beloved husband who survives her along with their children Mary-Catherine (Thomas) Perkowski of Concord, NC, Mark Thomas and daughter-in-law Lindsay Thomas of Concord, NC, and Matthew Adam Thomas of Niles, OH; as well as her grandchildren Makayla Pankratz (Matthew), Isabella Thomas (Mark), Andrew Perkowski (Mary-Catherine), Jackson Thomas (Matthew), Giuliana Thomas (Mark), Miles Thomas (Mark), and great-granddaughter Ivy (Makayla). She also leaves behind her brother Bill Conklin and wife Ana of Benbrook, TX, and nephew Kevin Conklin of Dallas, TX, as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

Anne dedicated over 30 years as a devoted teacher to Henderson County Public Schools, where she left an indelible mark on countless students. A woman of immense strength and character, she led by example, prioritizing the wellbeing of others and rarely complaining. She inspired her children and grandchildren to pursue knowledge and selflessness—a legacy cherished by her family.

Passionate about education and personal growth, Anne relished reading, crossword puzzles, and word searches. An avid sports fan, she dearly loved watching baseball, basketball, and her grandchildren's games. Her love for animals brought her joy and companionship throughout her life.

Deeply involved in her faith, Anne was a devoted parishioner of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hendersonville and later St. John Newman Catholic Church after moving to the Charlotte area in 2015. Her unwavering support for numerous non-profits highlighted her lifetime commitment to compassion and generosity.

A mass celebrating Anne's life will be held on July 24th, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Westerly, Rhode Island, with a graveside committal at River Bend Cemetery to follow.

In honor of Anne's selfless spirit, her life reflects the words of Philippians 2:1-11, a testament to her unwavering dedication to humility, empathy, and love. She will be profoundly missed and forever cherished.