Dedicated, organized and missed

Gerry Hostetler of the Charlotte Observer writes Saturday about Carol Gibbs Smith, who recently retired from the Observer’s business desk and died Nov. 7. She was 65.

Hostetler wrote, “‘Carol was our den mother on the business desk,’ said business editor Patrick Scott. ‘She kept the team connected with birthday celebrations and updates on families, all while providing great customer service to readers who wanted news about their businesses in the paper. We knew we depended heavily on her, but we didn’t know how much until she was gone.'”

Later, Hostetler quoted business columnist Doug Smith: “‘Carol had an amazing talent for organization and the business staff needed her,’ said Observer business columnist Doug Smith. ‘The first thing she did was compile a list of everything a clerk reporter was supposed to do and had her editors prioritize it. She compiled the Names and Change column, the What’s New column, Calendar of Events and daily markets report. She kept track of everything for everyone in the department.’

“She also shepherded new reporters. ‘She was a substitute mother,’ Doug said. ‘She helped them get situated when they arrived in the city, made sure they had the proper office supplies and dispensed advice on getting around the city. I don’t think I ever met a more dedicated employee.'”

Read more here.