Georgia Woman, 85, Graduates High School 67 Years Later, Honored for Lifetime of Service

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

Shirley Smith of Americus, Georgia, marked a remarkable milestone on Saturday as she graduated from high school at the age of 85, a full 67 years after her original graduation date. The ceremony, attended by her family and the community she has tirelessly served, was a testament to her dedication and unwavering support for education.

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

Smith, a resident of Americus, received an honorary high school diploma as a surprise on her 85th birthday. The honor was bestowed upon her by Eric Finch, chief of police of the Montezuma Police Department, recognizing her lifelong commitment to her family and their educational endeavors.

Expressing her gratitude, Smith told Fox News Digital in a video interview, "I’m thankful. I think it’s an honor and I think it’s a blessing."

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.

Born and raised on a tobacco farm in Wilmington, North Carolina, Smith's educational journey took a different path when her family relocated to Somerville, New Jersey, in 1956. Due to financial challenges, she had to prioritize work over schooling, taking up jobs at a dry cleaner’s and a pocketbook factory.

Despite not pursuing formal education herself, Smith instilled a deep value for learning in her children and grandchildren. Education was a priority in her household, and she ensured her children received schooling, even if it meant sacrificing her own academic pursuits.

"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.

Her family members are proud of her achievements and the impact she has had on their lives. Brianna Robinson, Smith’s granddaughter from Tampa, Florida, shared, "My nana never missed a high school or college graduation for any of her children or grandchildren. I couldn’t be more honored and inspired."

Throughout her life, Smith has been a dedicated Baptist and missionary, caring for the sick and poor in her communities. Her unwavering faith and commitment to service have been the cornerstone of her existence.

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

Smith's graduation ceremony was a culmination of her decades of hard work and dedication. Though she may not be considering college, she looks forward to her reward in heaven, as she continues to draw inspiration from her faith and the love of her family.

Her story serves as a testament to the fact that education and success can manifest in various forms, and age should never hinder one's pursuit of knowledge and service to others.