Thomas Franklin Mark

Thomas “Tom” Mark, 88, of New Bern, North Carolina, passed away on September 3, 2025. He was born on October 9, 1936, in Bronx New York, to Maurice and Violet Mark. Tom was the eighth of nine sons in his family and is survived by his youngest brother, James, and wife Frances.

Tom went on to build a successful career as an insurance agent, Advanced Underwriting Consultant and Branch Manager with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, where he earned numerous sales awards and later served as Director of Training and Recruiting Services.

In 2000, Tom and his wife Laraine moved to New Bern, where he embraced early retirement, spending quality time with family and enjoying countless rounds of golf with friends and loved ones. In 2010, Tom felt a need to give back to his community and was elected as Craven County Commissioner—a position he held with dedication until his passing. He served multiple terms as both Chairman and Vice Chairman and remained committed to improving the lives of Craven County residents throughout his tenure.

Tom was predeceased by his first wife, Nora Fennell (d. 1982), and son James (Carolyn) Mark. Tom is survived by his loving wife, Laraine; and children; Thomas, Laura, Lawrence (Tracy), Robert (Martha), Robert (Stephanie) and Michael (Kristin); and his grandchildren; Tyler, Katherine, Charlotte, Sabrina, Patrick, Danielle, Nora, Hanna Jo, Meaghan, Duncan and James. He is also survived by great-grandchildren, River, Asher, and Finn.

Tom will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to public service, his deep love for community, and his resilience in the face of illness over the past several years.

A memorial service will be held on September 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Riverfront Convention Center of Craven County.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Thomas Franklin Mark.