A Life Well-Lived, A Tribute to Charlotte Test

On September 14, 2024, at the age of 97, Charlotte Test passed away peacefully. True to her spirit, her obituary was simple, factual and understated – reflecting the humbleness with which she lived her remarkable life. Nowhere did it mention the profound impact she had on the city of Dallas through the legacy of her philanthropy or the countless lives she quietly touched. Yet, I am certain that Charlotte intended it to be this way – a modest farewell to a life of extraordinary grace.

Meeting Charlotte was like witnessing gentle strength in motion. Petite and always composed, she had a way of crossing her legs delicately when she sat, adding to her quiet elegance. I never once heard her raise her voice, but I noticed how she would lower it when discussing something important, as if she knew the importance of her words and used them sparingly. Though soft-spoken, her convictions were immense, her dedication unshakeable and her heart boundless.

Born on October 12, 1927, in Hillsboro, Texas, Charlotte was the daughter of Roy Nelms Cromwell and Altha Wilmoth Cromwell. She graduated from Hillsboro High School, Hillsboro Junior College and the University of Texas, where she joined Zeta Tau Alpha and Omicron Nu, the Honorary Home Economics Sorority. Her early career saw her as a home economist for Texas Power and Light and later Dallas Power and Light. In 1951, she married Walter James Wanner and moved to Dallas, which remained her home until her passing. Together, they had one son, Andy Wanner, who preceded them both in death. After the loss of her first husband, Charlotte married Donald N. Test, Jr., who passed away in 2016.

Charlotte’s life was rich and full, shaped by her marriage to Don, which allowed her to travel, explore, and, most importantly, to give back. Her influence was a quiet and steady force that moved the needle of change through her words of encouragement and her belief in the potential of others. Charlotte was never one to demand; rather, she would remind you of your best qualities and help you aspire to them. She left those around her feeling stronger, better and more hopeful.

Charlotte was a great friend and supporter of Forefront Living, specifically the Forefront Living Foundation. Her generosity is evident throughout the beautiful campus of the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center. With her departure, the world feels a little less bright but the legacy of her philanthropy and the countless lives she touched will continue to shine. Charlotte’s passing leaves us with a sense of bittersweet joy – a mix of sadness for our loss and gratitude for the light she shared so graciously.

By Sarah Jones