News

Georgia Grandmother, 85, Graduates from High School 67 Years Later

Published

6 months ago

June 3, 2024

An 85-year-old Georgia woman graduated from high school on Saturday in front of her family and the community she steadily serves.Fox News

An 85-year-old woman from Georgia achieved a remarkable milestone on Saturday by graduating from high school, a feat she accomplished 67 years after her original graduation date.

Shirley Smith, a resident of Americus, was pleasantly surprised on her 85th birthday when she learned that she would receive an honorary high school diploma.

Georgia resident, Shirley Smith, 85, graduates from high school with honorary diploma.

The recognition was bestowed upon her by Eric Finch, the chief of police of the Montezuma Police Department, in acknowledgement of her unwavering dedication to her family and her steadfast support for education.

Smith’s journey began on a tobacco farm in Wilmington, North Carolina, where she spent her childhood.

In 1956, her family relocated to Somerville, New Jersey, after her father sought better opportunities to support his six children following a decline in tobacco rates.

Despite her initial aspirations to pursue education, circumstances led her to prioritise earning a living to support her family.

Shirley Smith of Americus was shocked to find out on her 85th birthday that she would soon receive an honorary high school diploma thanks to Eric Finch, chief of police of the Montezuma Police Department.

After relocating, Smith secured employment at a dry cleaner’s and later at a pocketbook factory. Subsequently, she married and started a family of her own, eventually settling in Georgia.

Although she occasionally considered vocational school, she focused on caring for her children and providing for her family’s needs.

Throughout her life, Smith instilled the value of education in her household, ensuring that her children received schooling and encouraging them to pursue their academic goals.

When Smith was going into 10th grade, she told her father that she didn’t want to go back to school, and got a job instead.

Her commitment to education was evident as she watched her children and grandchildren graduate from prestigious universities across the United States, including Texas A&M, Montclair University, and California State University, Fullerton.

Smith’s family expressed immense pride in her accomplishments and considered her more than deserving of the honorary diploma.

Brianna Robinson, Smith’s granddaughter from Tampa, Florida, described her as an inspiring figure who always emphasised the importance of chasing dreams and maintaining faith in God.

"My nana never missed a high school or college graduation for any of her children or grandchildren," Brianna Robinson of Tampa, Florida — a granddaughter of Smith's — told Fox News Digital.

In addition to her role as a devoted mother and grandmother, Smith dedicated herself to serving her community as a faithful Baptist missionary.

Over the years, she tirelessly cared for the sick and the poor, demonstrating compassion and selflessness in her endeavors.

Despite facing challenges and hardships, Smith remained steadfast in her faith, attributing her resilience and achievements to the guidance of God.

She expressed gratitude for her recognition, viewing it as a testament to the power of faith and perseverance.

Her family is equally proud of her for her lifetime of accomplishments — and feels she is more than deserving of the honor.

Chief Eric Finch, inspired by the heartfelt sentiments expressed at Smith’s milestone birthday celebration, felt compelled to honor her with a diploma.

Recognising her contributions to her family and community, Finch believed it was only fitting to acknowledge Smith’s dedication and service formally.

On the day of her graduation ceremony, Smith radiated joy and excitement as she donned a purple-and-white dress beneath her black cap and gown. Surrounded by her loved ones, she eagerly anticipated the surprises planned by her family to commemorate the occasion.

Despite the achievement of receiving her honorary diploma, Smith maintained her characteristic humility and humor when asked about future plans or aspirations. With a smile, she jokingly remarked that her next step involved preparing to “go to heaven,” emphasizing her unwavering faith and acceptance of life’s journey.

Smith’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the power of perseverance, faith, and the enduring pursuit of education. Her remarkable journey exemplifies the transformative impact of love, dedication, and service in shaping lives and inspiring others to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.