WASHINGTON DC – The NAACP family is saddened by the passing of Dr. Vasco Smith Jr., civil rights activist and husband to NAACP National Board Member Maxine Smith from Tennessee.
“Dr. Smith was a valiant freedom fighter who will be much missed. He was an early office holder and a stalwart of the Memphis NAACP, a life companion of his wife Maxine an NAACP board member, and a great father to Vasco “Smitty” Smith both who survive him," stated Julian Bond, Chairman of the NAACP Board of Directors.
A lifelong civil rights advocate, Smith began his journey into politics in 1973 when he was victorious in a special election for an at-large seat on the Shelby County Quorum Court. During his tenure, Dr. Smith and others were instrumental in founding the Regional Medical Center at Memphis. Smith served on the court until he retired from public life in 1994.
Dr. Smith was well known for his passion for promoting civil rights for all. He fought tirelessly to eliminate the barriers of racism. His positive impact on the city of Memphis endures today. Smith was a committed leader and worked with other civil rights pioneers like Benjamin Hooks, Jesse Turner, A. W. Willis, H. T. Lockard and Russell Sugarmon to ensure voter registration for all, litigate against violations of civil rights and help to elect African-Americans to public office.
“The entire NAACP family’s thoughts and prayers go out to Maxine Smith, NAACP board member for her tremendous loss. Dr. Smith was a determined advocate for social change, human and civil rights. He has inspired us all through his invaluable contributions to our struggle. Dr. Smith will be sorely missed and we will honor his legacy through his contributions of his noble work in the NAACP,” stated Benjamin Todd Jealous, President and CEO of the NAACP.
Roslyn M. Brock NAACP Vice Chairman said on Dr. Smith’s death “Dr. Smith and his wife Maxine, campaigned to make Memphis a community of equal opportunity for every one of its citizens, they demonstrated, they marched, they led voter registration drives and they raised funds for freedom. The NAACP is justly proud of the heritage Dr. Smith leaves from which we will continue to benefit.”
Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities, conducting voter mobilization and monitoring equal opportunity in the public and private sectors.
#
NAACP National Headquarters
4805 Mt. Hope Drive
Baltimore MD 21215
Toll Free:
(877) NAACP-98
Local:
(410) 580-5777
© 2009 NAACP
All Rights Reserved