Thomas Wayne Elkins

Tom was a lifelong learner with a passion for service. He earned a bachelor’s degree in International Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and went on to complete a master’s degree in Public Administration at NC State University.

Throughout his career, Tom dedicated himself to strengthening health and public service in North Carolina. He began as Executive Director of the Region L Council of Governments in Rocky Mount. He later became Executive Director of the North Carolina Public Health Association, where he worked to implement statewide health initiatives and support the policymaking efforts of the Governor’s Council. Tom also served as a Medical Facilities Health Planner, collaborating with doctors, researchers, consultants, and attorneys to improve healthcare delivery. Before retiring, he was a Certificate of Need Project Analyst with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Health Service Regulation, in Raleigh.

Tom’s impact extended far beyond his career. He was known for his kind spirit, his love of music, and his joy in dancing to the oldies. His love of travel began during his service in the Peace Corps in Mali, West Africa, and continued throughout his life as he and Anne Marie explored the world together. Highlights of their travels included a trip to the Soviet Union in 1982 with Friendship Force; a 3-week exchange with the City Manager of Canterbury, England; as well a trip to Paris once for each of the five decades of his marriage to his devoted wife, Anne Marie. Committed to his community, Tom was an active member of civic organizations and a proud member of the Crabtree Rotary Club, where he was honored as Man of the Year in both 2013 and 2014.

Tom sustained a life-long interest in politics. In October of 2017, former Governor Roy Cooper, appointed Tom to the NC State Bar Council as one of three public members. Tom regrets that he did not live long enough to see Roy Cooper elected to the US Senate in 2026.

While living in Rocky Mount, Tom was elected as an Elder in the West Haven Presbyterian Church. Along with his wife, Anne Marie, he taught the Young Teens Sunday School class for several years.

A special thank you is extended to Tom’s long-term primary care physician, Dr. Daniel Mollin and his nurse, Heather Hansen. They were always available for helpful and honest advice. Their love for Tom and his care was always appreciated and will never be forgotten.

Tom is survived by his wife, Anne Marie Elkins; his sister, Diane Elkins Lambeth; his brother, Ed Elkins and sister-in-law, Angela; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roscoe and Lillian Elkins; his brother, Howard Elkins; and his three cherished furry, feline companions---George Moses, Quincy, and Barracuda.

Burial services will be private. A celebration of life service and reception will be held at a date to be determined in 2026.

The family requests donations be made to the Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607, or Safe Haven for Cats, 8431-137 Garvey Street, Raleigh, NC 27616.

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary’s Street, Raleigh, NC is serving the Elkins family.