A house RESOLUTION

 

to congratulate thelmer "T.m." Cook of fairfield county on the occasion of his ninety-fifth birthday and to wish him a joyous birthday celebration and continued health and happiness.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were delighted to learn that Thelmer "T.M." Cook of Fairfield County celebrated his ninety-fifth birthday on February 7, 2025; and

 

Whereas, born on February 7, 1930, in the midst of the Great Depression, T.M. has witnessed the many remarkable social changes, technological advancements, and international developments that have spanned the globe from that time into the first quarter of the twenty-first century; and

 

Whereas, born and raised on his family's farm, T.M. began his educational journey at New Hope School and graduated from Fairfield High School in Winnsboro. Committed to academic excellence and preparation for a career in education, he pursued higher learning at Allen University and later earned a master's degree in Elementary Supervision from South Carolina State University. His dedication to continued professional growth led him to further his studies at the University of South Carolina, the University of Florida, and Clemson University; and

 

Whereas, throughout his distinguished career in public education, he served in numerous vital roles, including classroom teacher, teaching principal, supervising principal, school hearing officer, and as a reviewing member for the SC Association of School Administrators' prestigious Palmetto's Finest Award. His leadership was exemplified during his seven-year tenure as principal of Woodward Elementary School in Blackstock, followed by 26 years of dedicated service as principal of Geiger Elementary School in Ridgeway. Additionally, he contributed his expertise as interim principal at Kelly Miller Elementary School in Winnsboro for one year; and

 

Whereas, a lifelong public servant, T.M. was elected as a Fairfield County magistrate in 1970, becoming the first Black magistrate to serve in the county since the Reconstruction era. His dedication to civic leadership extended beyond the courtroom; he also served on the Fairfield County Council, the Selective Service Board, and the Fairfield County Council on Aging. In addition to his governmental service, T.M. was an active member of the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World (I.B.P.O.E.W.). Deeply committed to his faith community, he served as Superintendent of Sunday School and was a respected member of the Trustee Board at his church; and

 

Whereas, throughout his career, Mr. Cook was actively involved in numerous civic and community organizations, including the Medical Advisory Commission of Fairfield County, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and the Fairfield County Progressive Citizens Organization. He also honorably served his country as a member of the United States Army and the South Carolina State Guard; and

 

Whereas, it is a great pleasure to honor this son of South Carolina at the celebration of his ninety-fifth birthday, and it is a further pleasure to join with his family and friends in congratulating him on reaching this important life milestone. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate Thelmer "T.M." Cook of Fairfield County on the occasion of his ninety-fifth birthday and wish him a joyous birthday celebration and continued health and happiness.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Mr. Thelmer "T.M." Cook.

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