Charlotte Cook Smith was a legal assistant for more than 40 years in corporate and private practice.
Her first marriage was to Robert W. Cook for 46 years, and they had one son and one daughter, three grandsons and one granddaughter.
Seven years after Robert’s sudden death, Charlotte married Roy J. Smith, retired Baptist State Convention executive director. They moved to a home in the Brookridge Retirement Community, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where she continues to reside and is a member of First Baptist Church.
She is currently serving on Good Faith Media’s strategic advisory board.
- What story, verse or passage from your faith tradition’s sacred texts has significantly influenced / shaped your life?
Very early in my life, my middle name, Esther, started me on a study of the life of Esther and women of the Bible.
Jesus’ example of love, acceptance and teaching was exhibited in his relationship with Martha and Mary, the woman at the well and the women at the cross and tomb, and this solidified my faith and belief in the important role of women.
I became obsessed with doing everything possible to help make a difference for women in the home, church, society and the world.
- Who are three people (other than your family) who have shaped your life and worldview? And why?
James Eugene Snyder, attorney, was my first boss/teacher who taught me law and the legal profession and discussed biblical scripture and political life.
Garland Hendricks, Southeastern Seminary, and Dr. Carlton Mitchell, Wake Forest Divinity School, taught and encouraged my involvement in writing and collecting church history, as well as involvement in Baptist life.
Serving in all organizations of Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU) of North Carolina and as a state officer, Sara Ann Hobbs, Nancy Curtis and many national WMU officers deepened my faith and conviction, provided other areas of service, mission involvement and encouragement to continue the course.
- List three of your “desert island” books, movies or TV shows.
The book, Pure Gold, by J.G. Bow (published 1924) created in my life at an early age the desire to follow the exemplary life of the main character.
The Sun Is My Undoing by Marguerite Steen opened my eyes to racial discrimination and unheard of cruelty.
The Bible! No matter my age, the more study, the greater understanding I gain of God’s love.
One favorite movie was “On Golden Pond.”
- What is one of the most critical issues people are facing today?
I believe practicing “The Golden Rule” and loving, accepting and respecting all people regardless of their belief, race or attitude are critical issues to help bring change to a torn world.
- What are a few of your hobbies?
Traveling throughout the world was a childhood dream as we studied missions. My two husbands and I fulfilled that dream through visits and friendships made in many countries and continents.
Vacationing with my family at the beach or mountain lake is a joyful, fun time.
Writing stories of my life of 92 years so my family can understand what it was like in the “old days” and lessons learned is an enjoyable pastime.
I enjoy growing flowers around my house and sharing them with friends, which has replaced a time of the past of gardening, freezing and canning vegetables.
- If you could freeze your life into an already-lived 10 seconds, what would they be?
It’s impossible – there are too many in 92 years! One would be the joyful smile on Robert Cook’s face when our two children were born. Another, the audience’s surprised and shocked reaction when Roy Smith and I impersonated Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, singing “Jackson.”
- Our tagline at Good Faith Media is, “There’s more to tell.” What’s your “more to tell”?
Stay involved, exercise, live life to the fullest and “make A difference” wherever you go or in whatever you are involved.
Reflection and resources at the intersection of faith and culture through an inclusive Christian lens.
