Carol Smith Cortright lived a life centered on faith, family, and gentle strength. A devoted disciple of Jesus Christ, she began and ended every day in prayer. Her church communities—especially Immanuel United Methodist—were her spiritual home, and she treasured leading Bible studies and learning alongside others. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elaine Mae Knopp and Charles Edward Smith.
Carol was a proud graduate of Michigan State University, where she also met her dearest friend Mary. Her green-and-white spirit never faded; her joyful “Go Green!” became a signature part of who she was. She later earned her master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University.
She held a deep love for the beauty of Michigan—Lake Michigan’s shoreline, lighthouses, covered bridges, Greenfield Village, and especially the quiet trails of Ludington State Park, where she found solace and joy.
Carol spent nearly forty years at The Detroit News, first as a Fashion Coordinator for Tavy Stone and later as an Ad Designer. Her coworkers remember her most for her laughter—her lifelong superpower—along with her creativity and kindness.
She lived out her faith through service, volunteering for decades at the Immanuel United Methodist Food Pantry and working each year with MCREST. She expressed love through the quilts she carefully crafted for the people she held close.
Carol is survived by her son Eric Alan Cortright, her daughter Lisa Marie Cortright Magee, her granddaughter Pepper Carol Magee, her godson Mark who she raised as family, and dear friends, many who lovingly called her “Mamma C.”
Carol lived with humility, gratitude, and a joyful heart. She now rests in the eternal peace of her Savior.
A verse Carol lived by:
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24
Services
Memorial Service
Immanuel United Methodist Church
23715 Gratiot Ave, Eastpointe, MI 48021
Friday, November 28 at 11:00 a.m.
Celebration of Life (Immediately Following)
The Two Way Inn
17897 Mt Elliott St, Detroit, MI 48212
Street parking available.
Flowers & Donations
If you wish to send flowers, please direct them to:
Immanuel United Methodist Church
23715 Gratiot Ave, Eastpointe, MI 48021
Please note: Flowers should be designated for the funeral service on 11/28.
Arrangements may be ordered through Mancuso’s in their Thanksgiving color palette:
https://www.mancusos.com/occasions/thanksgiving-flowers/
In lieu of flowers, Carol would be honored by donations to the Immanuel UMC Food Pantry, a ministry close to her heart:
https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z41W/campaign/C-125R2
