Elizabeth McNeill Cook
Elizabeth McNeill Cook, 91, widow of Joseph Henry Cook, passed away on Monday, December 24, 2018. She was born and raised in Wilkes County, NC. Her parents were the late Marbrit B. McNeill and the late Blanche Parsons McNeill. She graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill and earned a Masters degree from UNC-G.
In 1950 she married Joe Cook from Travelers Rest, SC and moved to Slater, SC where Mr. Cook worked in the textile industry. J. P Stevens prompted a move to Greensboro, NC where they lived for 26 years before returning to Greenville, SC. Mrs. Cook volunteered for the YWCA in Greenville and while in Greensboro served as President and its interim director. She held a number of civic leadership roles while a teacher, social worker, homemaker, and travel planner.
Her dedication to serving others extended to her active membership in the American Association of University Women and as an active member of the Democratic Party. She was a strong supporter of local arts.
Mrs. Cook truly enjoyed traveling and experiencing other cultures. She was generous in nature and held a strong desire to improve the welfare of humanity. She was an accomplished bridge player and enjoyed lively book club discussions and college continuing education classes. Mrs. Cook lived in the Rolling Green Village Retirement community for the past 28 years.
Mrs. Cook is survived by her son, Joseph H. Cook, Jr. and his wife, Gail, of Rock Hill, SC; her grandson, Andrew Cook of Rock Hill; and her brother, Gene McNeill of Wilkesboro, NC.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to one of the following organizations:
United Ministries, 606 Pendleton Street, Greenville, SC 29601
The Nature Conservancy of SC, 801 Gervais St. #202, Columbia, SC 29201
Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery, AL 36104
Lib was a founding member of the Chautauqua audience. I so recall the beginning years when she was one of a dozen or so that would come to every one of our Monthly discussions, and driving and finally riding the RGV bus to all our shows. She was so smart and such a pleasure to know. She is missed.
We have only known Lib for a little more than a year. During this time we knew her as a very sweet neighbor. Our prayers go out to her family during this tough time. Loving Jesus, please hold Lib’s hand and bless her soul.
I am so sorry to hear about Lib passing away. She lived nearby and I knew her from Democratic Women of Greenville. We lived in the same precinct. When Barack Obama was running for president, she urged me to host a house party for our precinct. I hosted it in our neighborhood club house and she brought friends and food. I always admired her energy and enthusiasm and ability to get things done. My condolences go out to her family.