Hoke Smith

Biography

Hoke Smith (1855–1931) of Oakland Cemetery devoted his life to Georgia's public service, having held office as both governor and U.S. senator and championing policies aimed at strengthening schools and expanding access to learning for young citizens.

Though times were often contentious, Smith steadfastly believed that government should serve the people's needs, remaining engaged with civic organizations even after leaving elected office, with his legacy enduring in the educational institutions he helped sustain and in the generations of Georgians shaped by his leadership.