Ernestine Ward Tew

Ernestine W. Tew (Ward), 99, of Smithfield, VA passed away on April 24^th 2022. Born January 9^th, 1923 in Virginia, the youngest of eight children of John G. Ward and Mary E. Cloud. She grew up on a farm working the tobacco fields, sneaking away to read books whenever she could. Married to Clinton Carver Cooke, an army vet who served in WWII, they raised a family together in Durham, NC. Ernestine was preceded in death by her two children Donald Cooke and Janice Carmack. She is survived by her grandchildren Jason (Julann) Cawley and Heather (Jason) Snipes and her five great grandchildren Cedric (Alanna), Corey, Jackson, Cameron, and Madison and her great-great grandchild Ryleigh. After Clinton's passing Ernestine married Woody Tew. Years later she divorced and then met her lifelong partner, Gordon Marks. After her retirement from Wachovia Bank, Ernestine and Gordon would take long RV trips from Durham to Alaska every summer where they would fish for salmon. When the RV was parked, they spent their remaining time at Atlantic Beach where they enjoyed many fun years together doting on their cat Lucky and surrounded by friends. She was part of the local quilting guild and loved crafting in her sewing room which had a beautiful view of the Sound. After her time at the beach, Ernestine moved to Smithfield, VA to spend more time with her granddaughter and great-grandkids. She lived at Magnolia Manor spending her days playing games and sharing memories. Ernestine's sense of humor and laugh were unlike any other. She was loved by everyone and always had a funny story to share. She will be missed by all of those who were lucky to know her. Private family services will be held.  Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.