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Obituary For Mary Elizabeth Peek
Mary Elizabeth Peek, aged 90, of Greensboro, North Carolina, passed away on Saturday, June 21st, 2025 in her sleep, peacefully, at home surrounded by the comfort and love of her family.
Born on January 5, 1935, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Minnard Harvey Peek and Naomi Grant, Mary’s life journey was rooted in strength, resilience, and love. At one year old, she moved with her parents to Greensboro, NC — a place that would become her lifelong home. She began her education at Washington Street Elementary School before relocating to Altoona, Pennsylvania, where she attended Mt. Aloysius Catholic School for middle and high school, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for learning.
Mary pursued her undergraduate studies in Economics at Chestnut Hill College, and later returned to education with force — earning a Master’s degree in Education from A&T State University, and continuing toward a Ph.D. in Education in her later years. Mary remained a proud AKA alumni throughout her years.
Beyond her education, Mary was an educator herself. She was the first black teacher at George Washington High School in Danville, Virginia, before spending 4+ years in faculty at UNCG and 15+ years in faculty at A&T State University teaching English & Humanities. Mary further served on the Foundation & Alumni boards at A&T State University.
Mary also was an entrepreneur, building and operating the Carlotta Supper Club in Greensboro, NC alongside her father until his passing in 1987, and then independently until the early 2000s. Among the many talents featured at the club were Marvin Gaye, Patti LaBelle, and others. Through music, food, and community, Mary brought people together — always with joy, elegance, and unmistakable flair.
She married Cyrus Theodore Greene on April 6, 1958. Their union brought forth her pride and joy - her only daughter, Elaine Greene-McCone.
Mary was known for her avid passion for shopping, her laughter which could fill a room, and her love of music, nightlife, and travel. Mary visited 30+ countries on 5 continents during her lifetime, making connections and building relationships worldwide. Beyond her travel, she also participated in many community organizations - including the Links and the Smart Set groups. Mary was constantly on the phone with her friends across the globe - often known to be caught at 2am watching Jewelry Television with her loved ones.
She is survived by her daughter Elaine Greene-McCone, her grandchildren Kaelan, Mariana, and Grant McCone, and a worldwide circle of friends and family.
A memorial mass will be held on Tuesday, July 1st at 10:30am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Greensboro, NC. Visitation 10am. Burial Carolina Biblical Gardens, and a repast meal with the family will follow the service.
Her memory will live on through all of our collective remembrances and stories of our time with her. She will be deeply missed by all those who loved her.
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Roy Whitaker sent The Loving Light Dishgarden for Mary Elizabeth Peek - June 30, 2025
Elaine and family, hoping you will take comfort in your memories and knowing the love Mary felt from your care and devotion. I will always remember her as my best friend, who was like a sister to me.
Mattie
Elaine, My condolences to you and your family as you celebrate the wonderful life of your mother. 🙏🏽
I extend my condolences to all who knew and loved her. I had Professor Peek for Humanities at A&T for 2 semesters. I truly enjoyed being a student in her class and her independent style of teaching made it enjoyable to learn. I'm grateful for her role in my path in education.
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Mary shined light of dignity and service onto a dark world.
Elaine, I learned that your mother passed today (6/30/25). My heart was heart. Then I remembered the very special gifts memories. I will always remember the many times I shared Birthday Celebrations for your mother with you and other family members and friends. She was a charming person that I will lovingly remember always. She loved you and her grandchildren so very much. May you each be blessed with a lifetime of fond memories. Love and prayers to your Family always ❤️🙏🏿
Elaine and family I just learned of the passing of Mary and wanted to offer my sincere sympathy and condolences to you and your family. Mary truly loved you and her grandchildren. May she rest in peace with her Heavenly Father.
You will forever hold a special place in place in my heart my dear friend. Rest in Peace.❤️❤️🙏🙏
With Deep Sisterly Love and Heartfelt Condolences
On behalf of the Beta Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of our beloved Soror Mary Peek.
Soror Peek was a devoted Life Member and a treasured jewel in our chapter and community. Her unwavering commitment to the ideals of Sisterhood, Service, and Scholarship were evident in her every interaction. Her grace, wisdom, and quiet strength left an indelible mark on our chapter and in the lives of those she mentored and served.
As we celebrate her legacy, we are reminded of the words in Psalm 116:15 — "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." Indeed, Soror Peek's life was a shining example of Christian love and sisterly devotion.
We honor her memory and the many years of dedicated service she rendered to Alpha Kappa Alpha. May her legacy continue to inspire us, and may her soul rest in eternal peace.
With love and remembrance, The Sisters of Beta Iota Omega Chapter Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Greensboro, North Carolina
Hi Elaine. Just remember what we talked about and know that I am at the other end of your cell phone for anything. I continue to wish you comfort, now and always.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
