85-year-old Georgia woman graduates high school after 67 years

85-year-old Georgia woman graduates high school after 67 years

An 85-year-old Georgia woman, Shirley Smith, achieved a lifelong dream by graduating from high school on Saturday. It was 67 years after her original graduation date. The ceremony took place in front of her family and community in Americus.

Smith received an honorary diploma thanks to Eric Finch, Chief of the Montezuma Police Department, in recognition of her dedication to her family and support for their education. “I’m thankful. I think it’s an honor and I think it’s a blessing,” Smith told Fox News Digital.

Growing up on a tobacco farm in Wilmington, North Carolina, Smith had to quit school in 1956 to help her family financially. She worked various jobs before marrying and moving to Georgia, where she prioritized her children’s education over her own. All of her children and grandchildren have pursued higher education at institutions such as Texas A&M and the University of Mississippi.

Smith, who is a dedicated churchgoer and community missionary, credited her faith and God’s plan for her recent achievement. “I’m really appreciative, and I’m really thankful to God,” she said.

Her family, proud of her lifelong accomplishments, celebrated her milestone with heartfelt admiration. Smith humorously noted that instead of planning for college, she is preparing for her heavenly reward.

Source: Fox News

85-year-old Georgia woman graduates high school after 67 years