J.L. McGarity Citizenship Award

We are honored to recognize Vickie Smith as the recipient of the J. L. McGarity Citizenship Award, one of the most meaningful and prestigious honors presented by the Walton County Chamber of Commerce. Established in 1968, this award honors the legacy of J. L. McGarity, a leader whose life reflected humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving Walton County.

The J. L. McGarity Citizenship Award is not simply about community involvement. It is a celebration of the values that bind us together: selflessness, compassion, and a tireless dedication to improving the lives of others. These qualities define meaningful public service and true citizenship.

Vickie Smith embodies these ideals in every way. As a lifelong resident of Walton County, she has dedicated her life to public service and to improving the quality of life for those around her. Her commitment to leadership and to helping others is evident in every role she has held within our community.

Through her leadership, thousands of seniors have benefited from programs that provided dignity, care, and essential support. These include social programs, home-delivered meals for those in need, education on senior scams, and assistance with energy bills, prescriptions, and supplemental health care premiums. Her work ensured that seniors in Walton County were not only supported, but truly seen and valued.

Her faith has been a guiding force throughout her life and service. For many years, she has poured love and compassion into the youngest members of our community as a Sunday School teacher for three- to five-year-old children at First Baptist Church of Monroe. Her influence spans generations, from children just beginning their journeys to seniors navigating later stages of life.

Vickie’s dedication to Walton County is reflected in the many leadership roles she has served with excellence and integrity. She has served as County Clerk and Human Resources Manager for Walton County Government, Chairperson for the March of Dimes, Vice President of the Georgia Local Government Personnel Association, District 3 Board of Commissioner for two terms, and as a Zone 5 School Board member supporting our school-aged children.

Her actions have left an incredible and lasting mark on our community. The number of people who have benefited directly or indirectly from her service is truly immeasurable. Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to others continue to shape Walton County in powerful ways.

The J. L. McGarity Citizenship Award honors individuals whose lives remind us of the true power of service. Vickie Smith’s story is a beautiful example of what happens when one person chooses to lead with heart, humility, and integrity.

On behalf of everyone whose life she has touched, we offer our deepest gratitude. Her spirit of citizenship enriches our community and serves as a lasting reminder that service, when done with love, truly changes lives.