87- Year Old Woman Receives High School Diploma 67 Years After Leaving School
The idea to honor Smith with an honorary high school diploma came after her heartfelt words were spoken at her milestone birthday party. Finch, the police chief, was inspired by her dedication as a mother and faithful steward of her community and felt it was only right to give her the recognition she deserved.
c.Blessing 
Shirley Smith, an 85-year-old resident of Americus, Georgia, finally graduates from high school, 67 years after her original graduation date.
Smith was presented with a surprise honorary high school diploma by Eric Finch, the Chief of Police of Montezuma Police Department. The recognition was a tribute to her unwavering support of her family’s education and her dedication to her community.
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Born and raised on a tobacco farm in Wilmington, North Carolina, Smith’s journey was far from typical. Smith, in the 10th grade, made the difficult decision to quit school and start working to support her family.
Despite not having a formal education, Smith prioritized education in her household. She instilled in her children the importance of schooling, and they embraced it wholeheartedly. Today, she takes immense pride in seeing her children and grandchildren graduate from esteemed institutions such as Texas A&M, Montclair University, California State University Fullerton, University of Tampa, and University of Mississippi.
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The idea to honor Smith with an honorary high school diploma came after her heartfelt words were spoken at her milestone birthday party. Finch, the police chief, was inspired by her dedication as a mother and faithful steward of her community and felt it was only right to give her the recognition she deserved.
Despite facing challenges and obstacles throughout her life, Shirley Smith continued to prioritize education for her family and community. Her dedication to her loved ones and her service as a missionary are just a few examples of her selflessness and commitment. The honorary high school diploma serves as a token of appreciation for Smith’s lifetime of achievements, symbolizing her unwavering faith and dedication.
