Elaine Clark Smith

Augusta, GA – Entered into rest on Saturday, September 28, 2024, Elaine Clark Smith, 79.

 Elaine Clark Smith passed away on September 28, 2024, following a seven-month battle with breast cancer. She was a pillar of the Augusta community and leaves behind a legacy of altruistic commitment that will be felt for generations to come. Those that were fortunate enough to know Elaine will remember her charm, wit, and her passion for community outreach. Elaine provided guidance and leadership as an active member of numerous civic organizations, most notably as a long-standing member of the Augusta University Foundation Board and chair of the Literacy Center Advisory Board. Acting on her interest in helping promote athletic participation among women at AU, Elaine and other local donors provided the initial funding necessary to launch the women’s golf athletic program.

 Elaine’s passion for improving literacy within the community lead her to start the Elaine Clark Smith Literacy Endowment which helped the literacy center attain an experienced, professional staff and establish a comprehensive literacy program. Elaine also served in extended leadership roles in First Tee of Augusta, Sacred Heart Culture Centre, and was a long-term foundation board member for former University Hospital. She also held a state leadership position in Garden Clubs of Georgia and was an active member in the local garden club Spade and Trowel.

 She is survived by her husband Roger Smith and his children and grandchildren, her son Jason Clark and his wife Shonna, her three sisters Meril Merritt, Carol Holden, Gayle Ardrey and Gayle’s husband Vince, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents William and Margaret (Margie) Smith.

 A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 2 pm at First Baptist Church, Augusta, GA. A celebration of life event will be announced in the near future.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Dr. Paulette P. Harris Literacy Center at Augusta University Literacy Center, 631 Chafee Avenue, Suite 104, Augusta, GA 30904 or to First Baptist Church of Augusta, 3500 Walton Way Ext, Augusta, GA 30909.