Harry Smith

Retired U.S Army Lieutenant Colonel Harry Verne Smith of Dahlonega, Georgia passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, October 11, 2023.

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 27th, 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.