WILSON – Annie Laurie Cowan Cockrell of Wilson passed away peacefully at her home on November 24th.

She was born December 21, 1925 in Powellsville, North Carolina (BertieCounty), to her parents, James S. and Myrtle Myers Cowan. Annie Laurie was predeceased by her husband, Onnie Robert Cockrell, Jr.; her daughter, Patricia Ann Cockrell; her parents; four brothers, Rupert Earl Cowan, Robert L. Cowan, James A. Cowan, and Dr. Leon K. Cowan; and one sister, Myrtle Old Cowan. She is survived by five nephews, seven nieces, and many cousins.

Annie Laurie graduated from PowellsvilleHigh School. She attended Louisburg College and received her AB degree in Primary Education at Atlantic Christian College. Her teaching career included schools in Askewville, Powellsville, Rock Ridge, and Gardner Elementary School in Wilson. In 1975, she was named Teacher of the Year for Wilson County. Annie retired in 1986.

Telling stories and speaking to senior groups was a favorite activity for Ann. She was active in Bible study groups at her church and also in Cerebral Palsy organizations and telethons. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Wilson.

Annie Laurie’s funeral service will be held at Joyner’s Funeral Home in Wilson at 2:00 p.m. on December 18th. A visitation will precede the service from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Marsh Swamp Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery in Rock Ridge, with a reception immediately following at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Wilson Community Soup Kitchen, P.O. Box 2091, Wilson, NC 27894.

Condolences may be directed to www.joyners.net.