Betty M. (Smith) Rook

Betty M. Rook, 91, passed away at Seneca Nursing & Rehab, with her family by her side, on the morning of Saturday, January 10th, 2026. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21st at 12 NOON at New Life Assembly of God, 7608 State Route 31, Lyons, NY 14489. She will find eternal rest with her late husband, Robert, in Bath National Cemetery. Donations in memory may be directed to New Life Assembly of God.

Betty was born in Orange, NJ, daughter of the late Norman and Marguerite (Mason) Smith. Betty, after she married Robert, was a military wife for 20 years. They traveled all over the United States and even to Japan raising their children. After which, Robert became an ordained minister and she became a dedicated pastor’s wife for 32 years. It was during this time that she received her minister credentials herself in 1984, as she continued to work alongside her husband. They served at several different churches in New York State including Martville Assembly of God in Martville, NY, New Life Assembly of God in Ogdensburg, NY, First Assembly of God in Seneca Falls, NY and then retired from full time pastoring. After retirement, they served as part time Associate Pastors for New Life Assembly of God in Lyons, NY. In addition to serving alongside her husband, Betty took positions at different Walmarts and at one time was a bus driver.

Betty was a woman of strong faith who enjoyed spending time with her church family. She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She very much enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Betty is survived by her son, Charles (Julie) Rook; daughters, Brenda (Eric) Hole and Roberta “Bobbi” (Daniel) Tucker; daughter-in-law, Pamela Rook; twelve grandchildren; thirty-seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and extended family. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her son; Kurtis Rook; and grandson, Luke Fordon.