Obituary of Carole Ann Smack

Click the link below to watch the celebration of life service.

https://www.youtube.com/live/7vAbmbzNTGo?si=2opsZqRHU9qNXEKd  

Carole Ann Smack, beloved wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, cousin and friend, was born on March 18, 1946, to David and Rita Hudson in South Philadelphia.  Raised in a loving home, Carole attended Philadelphia public schools and graduated from John Bartram High School in 1964.

While still in school, Carole met the love of her life, James Smack.  After receiving her father’s blessing, Carole and James began dating and were married on June 20, 1964.  Their union, built on love and devotion, flourished for over 60 years and was blessed with two children, Lisa and James Jr. (“Jay”).

Shortly after graduating, Carole began her professional career at the Insurance Company of North America (now Cigna), where she worked diligently and was recognized for excellence in reinsurance.  She remained with the company for her entire career, retiring after many years of dedicated service.  After retirement, Carole worked several years part time with Just Kids throughout South Jersey, spreading her love and laughter to the children, who affectionately called her the “toast lady.”

Carole’s faith was the cornerstone of her life.  She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized under the pastorate of Rev. Richard A. Dent at First African Baptist Church in Sharon Hill.  There, she served faithfully as an usher and contributed to the youth ministry.  Later, she and James joined St. Matthew’s Baptist Church in Williamstown, NJ, under the leadership of her brother-in-law, Dr. Raymond M. Gordon, Sr.

At St. Matthew’s, Caroles’ spiritual gift of hospitality blossomed.  She served with the Golden Ages Fellowship with compassion and dedication, ensuring members were remembered on birthdays and special occasions.  Carole also served as Hospitality Coordinator for the Annual Women’s Retreat, a role she approached with thoughtfulness and grace—selecting decorations, organizing dining experiences, and creating a warm, welcoming environment for all.  Her gifts and talents extended to the church’s Evening of Elegance and countless Church meals serving as the hostess for the pastor’s table.

Carole’s eye for beauty was reflected not only in church but in her home and garden.  Her house was immaculate and lovingly decorated, and her porch and garden became her sanctuary—brimming with hundreds of flowers she nurtured with joy and watered faithfully.  She loved to dance and play scrabble.

Above all, Carole was the heart of her family.  A devoted caregiver, she lovingly tended to her aging parents, choosing to keep them at home with dignity and grace.  She was deeply involve in the lives of her sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins—always available, always encouraging, and always keeping them laughing with her sense of humor and dramatic storytelling.  Family traditions, like taking her younger relatives to the Thanksgiving Day Parade, reflected her protective spirit and joyful heart.  She delighted the family’s palates with her potato salad, chicken salad and unforgettable Watergate cake.

She is preceded in death by her parents and sister Rosalie. Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband, James; children, Lisa and James Jr.; sisters, Davida Bolder (Charles) and Diane Gordon (Raymond); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

A woman of great faith and selflessness, Carole brought love, light and laughter to all who were graced to know her.  He hospitality, devotion, heart to serve and deep love for those around her leaves an indelible mark on all who knew her.