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BORN
1939
DIED
2023
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Harry Smith Obituary
He was preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Linda Groover Smith, and two children Greg Smith, aged 40, and Karen Smith, aged 44.
Verne was born in Nahunta, Georgia on May 27, 1939. He graduated from Jordan Vocational High School in Columbus, Georgia in 1957. He enrolled in North Georgia College, graduating in 1961, and accepted a commission in the U.S. Army as a Second Lieutenant in 1962. His military assignments included service with the 8th Infantry Division, 1st Cavalry Division, 1st Infantry Division, and as an ROTC instructor at NGC. He served two tours in Vietnam, earning the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), Meritorious Service Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), Senior Parachutist Badge, and other honors.
After retiring from the Army in 1983, Verne began a distinguished career working at North Georgia College. He would be responsible for the Office of Alumni Affairs, the NGC Foundation and Office of Development. He was promoted to Vice President for Advancement in 1995.
Following his retirement from North Georgia College in 1999, Verne enjoyed an active life of traveling, attending various sports events, and supporting NGC.
He is survived by his son, Phillip Smith, of Dahlonega, Georgia.
In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the North Georgia College, Class of 1961 Scholarship Fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Harry Smith
Skip(59) and Reid Bacon(Cadet)
January 19, 2024
True to the spirit of NGC. Skip '59
Nancy Sutherland
October 18, 2023
Verne was a wonderful man with may accomplishments and a lot of loving friends.
Robert E Alexander (Bobby)
October 13, 2023
Verne's Mother Vera was my Mom best friend work buddy at the Ralston Hotel in Columbus Georgia. Often Miss Vera would talk about her son Verne who she dearly loved. She was extremely proud of him. Eventually I met him. He told me about NGC and the Army. I was in awe of him. He graduated form NGC in 1961 and I entered NGC in 1967 and graduated 1971. Hand Salute! Day Is Done!
Milton Wynn
October 12, 2023
What a good man. I have many fond memories of LTC Smith, who along with others at NGC helped shape my path. Rest well.
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David O. Pritchett
October 12, 2023
I first met LTC Smith, then a Major, at college night at Columbus College in early 1971. He was accompanied by Major Charles Pritchett. We soon determined that Major Pritchett and I were distance relations and then Major Smith told me that he was a 1957 graduate of Jordan Vocational High School in Columbus. I told him that I had 2 uncles who attended Jordan and had graduated around that time. That is when I realized that I was not going off to college but I was going to my second home. David Pritchett, Major USAR (ret), Class of 1975.
Bob Saba
October 12, 2023
Vern was, to me, the epitome of an approachable, highly competent officer and gentleman. It was an honor to work with him at NGC and in several community organizations. Rest In Peace, my friend.
Louie Stephen Williams, Jr., NGC '86
October 12, 2023
I remember LTC Smith from my days at NGC. He was a great alumni leader and gave us outstanding support. My prayers are with his family and may he rest in His eternal peace.
Melissa Lach
October 12, 2023
Verne, such a kind man and I feel blessed to have worked with him at NGC. May he rise in glory!
Mark Howarth
October 12, 2023
Sharing a beer with my favorite boss at the Thirsty Whale Pub in Florida during one of our many trips together - loved his smile and character!
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