Commissioner Cooksey was first elected to the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners in 2008. A Republican, he served nearly two full terms on the Board representing District 5. Cooksey worked full-time as the in-house counsel for Akima Management Services in Charlotte. He graduated from Davidson College with a political science degree and from the University of Michigan Law School.

On May 27, 2010, Cooksey announced at the Board meeting that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but doctors had performed surgery and that he considered himself cancer-free. After additional complications, Cooksey entered hospice earlier this summer.

“Commissioner Cooksey was a respected public servant dedicated to his constituency and the residents of Mecklenburg County,” said Harry L. Jones Sr., County manager. “His courage, leadership, knowledge and friendship will be missed. Our prayers and condolences are with his family.”

County Commission Chairman Harold Cogdell added his thoughts as well.
"Neil was a deeply respected colleague that served with sincerity and compassion," said Cogdell. "On behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Cooksey was an active member of Carmel Presbyterian Church, and also served in leadership positions with United Way, Y-Guides and Boy Scouts, and as chairman of the board of directors of Seigle Avenue Preschool Cooperative. He is survived by his wife Allyson and children Charlie, Anna and Abigail.

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Media contact: Danny Diehl at 704-572-1035 or Daniel.Diehl@MecklenburgCountyNC.gov