Martin native inducted into Sports Hall of Fame

Posted: Wednesday, May 23, 2012 12:00 am

Carmack Smith left an indelible mark during a distinguished athletic and professional career, but 35 years as a Tennessee Secondary School Athletic (TSSAA) football official has earned him induction into the Class of 2012 of the Gibson County Sports Hall of Fame.
In recognition of his contributions to area athletics, Smith was officially enshrined into the Gibson County Sports of Fame during its annual banquet April 13 at Trenton Peabody High School.
Smith’s 35-year career as a football referee was highlighted by officiating in TSSAA state playoff games in Memphis and Nashville (1986) and the Clinic Bowl Game in Nashville in 1994. He served on the Gibson County Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors.
For more than 15 years, Smith served as clock operator for basketball games at Milan High School.
Smith’s background for officiating was developed by playing football at Weakley County Training School in Martin and Lane College in Jackson.
After graduating from Weakley County Training School in Martin in 1949, Smith participated in the Tennessee State University National Science Foundation Program. He attended Lane College in Jackson from 1949-53, where he earned a bachelor of science degree, and later a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin.
Smith’s school teaching career included: principal and teacher at Williams Chapel Elementary School of Humboldt, physical education and science teacher at Polk-Clark High School in Milan, physical education teacher at Park Avenue Middle School and attendance teacher in the Milan Special School System. Smith retired from the Milan Special School System in 1993.
Smith’s professional accomplishments and experience included: vice chairman of the Trenton Housing Authority for 28 years, active and dedicated member of Martin Tabernacle CME Church where he served in many capacities, member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, member of Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society, officer for the Gibson County Election Commission (15 years) and served two terms as President of the Retired Teachers Association (Life Membership).
Smith is married to Juanita Smith, a retired teacher in the Trenton Special School District. The Smiths have a son, Michael (and wife, Beverly) and two granddaughters, Maegan and Micah. Published in The WCP 5.22.12