Ms. Charlie M. Smith, 90, of Benton Harbor passed away Friday, November 9, 2018 at Spectrum Lakeland Hospital.
A Celebration of Home going will take place at 4:00 PM, Saturday, November 17, 2018 at Second Baptist Church, 600 Donald Atkins Dr., Benton Harbor, with Reverend Kenneth Gavin officiating. Arrangements entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services 556-9450.
Charlie was born on August 2, 1928 in Caruthersville, MO to Willis & Viula (Davis) Cobbs Sr. She was raised by her grandmother Sweetie Alexander following the passing of her mother at a young age. Following high school, Charlie received her certificate to become a beautician. She worked at Venus Beauty Salon in Benton Harbor for fifteen plus years before retiring. She wed Johnnie Smith in 1967 and they were married until his passing. Charlie was an active member of Second Baptist Church for 74 years. She was involved in the missionary ministry, the pastor’s aid ministry and the ushering committee. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, and was like a mother to many. Charlie will be missed dearly by all who knew her.
She is survived by her children Charles (Marilyn) Bolden of Grand Rapids, Rehga Bolden of Hemet, CA, Horatio (Ramona) Bolden Sr. of Henrico, VA, Frantone Smith of South Carolina and Zina Smith of Benton Harbor; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and several great-great grandchildren; sisters, Dolores Cobbs and Gloria Cobbs both of St. Louis, MO and a host of nieces and nephews; special granddaughter Crystal Bolden; special friend Ida Mekes and special goddaughter Joyce Hall.
She was preceded in death by her parents; grandmother Sweetie Alexander; husband Johnnie Smith; children, Joyce Horner and Mario Bolden and siblings, Dorothy Cobbs, Shirley Cobbs, Donald Cobbs, Josie Cobbs, Willis Cobbs Jr., Geraldine Cobbs, Sandra Cobbs, Larry Cobbs and Josh Cooper.