Mary Frances Peterson Thrift passed away peacefully in her sleep September 30, 2017 at the age of 86. She was born on February 1, 1931 in Harrells, NC. She graduated from Peace College with an associate’s degree in 1951. She continued her education at East Carolina University to earn her bachelor’s in Elementary Education where she met her future husband Roger. They had a long and happy marriage of 52 years. They enjoyed returning to Greenville over the years with friends to attend many ECU football games.
She touched many young lives as an elementary school teacher at Trent Park. She was a very active, committed member of Trinity United Methodist Church for over 50 years. She was a member the Women’s Club of New Bern and the Eastern Star. She cherished her many friends and enjoyed playing cards, golf, and going to movies with them. She loved being with her family and spending time at the beach.
She is preceded in death by her husband Roger Thrift. She is survived by her sister, Grace Ward, son, Michael and daughter-in-law Suzette Thrift, daughter Kristi and son-in-law Chuck Gilgo, and 2 grandchildren Steve and Sydney Gilgo.
Special thanks to Dr. Ken Wilkins, Sarah Teel Bennett and the staff at Synergy, Marlena and the staff at Bayview, and the staff at Carolina East Medical Center for their compassionate care.
A memorial service will be held in her honor on Tuesday, October 3rd at Trinity United Methodist Church at 12:00. A visitation will follow in the fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial contributions to Trinity United Methodist Church, PO Box 12867, New Bern, NC, 28561.
Arrangements entrusted to Pollock-Best Funerals and Cremations
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