Craven County is saddened to hear of the passing of longtime Craven County Commissioner Thomas Mark. Commissioner Mark has served the citizens of Craven County since 2010, including four terms as Chairman and two terms as Vice Chairman. Mark served on numerous boards and committees, including the CarolinaEast Regional Health System Board, the Tourism Development Authority Board, the Highway 70 Corridor Committee, the Vanceboro Library Board, the Highway 17 Association Board, the Kellenberger Foundation Board, and the Dix Crisis Center Board.
Commissioner Mark represented District 1, encompassing much of the northern portions of Craven County, including Fairfield Harbour, Bridgeton, and Vanceboro. Originally from New York State, Commissioner Mark has lived in Craven County since 2000 with his wife, Laraine.
Board Chairman Denny Bucher said, “For the past seven years, I have had the privilege of sitting alongside Tom. He has been a dedicated servant to the citizens of Craven County and will be greatly missed.”
Vice Chairman Jason Jones remarked, “Tom’s life can be defined by one word, ‘fighter’. He fought for the things that he thought would be beneficial for this county, he fought for the district in which he represented, and he fought for his own life in the face of health issues. Tom was not only my colleague, but my friend.”
County Manager Jack Veit said, “Commissioner Mark was committed to public service. I often looked to him for guidance and counsel as he provided a steady hand and leadership for the citizens of Craven County. His presence has been invaluable to the county, and he will be sorely missed.”
During his tenure on the Board, Commissioner Mark was instrumental in the success of several projects throughout the county. A short list includes the establishment of an opioid response effort, Riverfront Convention Center renovations, construction of a new Water Plant, and Highway 70 and 17 improvement advocacy. Additionally, Mark helped lead recovery and resiliency projects following Hurricanes Irene, Matthew, and Florence, including the implementation of a stream debris removal program.
Commissioner Mark’s family is making funeral arrangements. More information will be available at a later date.