Child Advocacy Hall of Fame 2016 Inductee

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Gardner Rayford Smith (October 28, 1965 to December 31, 2002) was born in Abington Virginia USA to Opal and Gardner William Smith. The Child Advocacy Hall of Fame is proud to highlight the late Gardner Smith's accomplishments, dedication and commitment to children in his 37 years with us.

Gardner Smith moved from the East to the West coast of the USA to attend college at Pacific University and ran track for the school. Gardner was well liked by everyone he came into contact with including coaches, teammates and fellow students. Gardner had a witty way that made you feel comfortable, at ease and was reportedly an excellent dancer. 

Folks who knew and worked with Gardner Smith noted his conversational gifts, ability to effectively communicate with anybody and a guy you couldn't "rile-up" according to fellow employees. Gardner was the same person no matter if he was at work, out with friends or sitting around the holiday table with extended family.

Gardner was a gentleman of strength, speed, naturally flowing social graces and a polite personality with outstanding athletic gifts in track and weightlifting.....a formidable force to reckon with should the need arise. The circle of people over 200lbs that can bench press 200% of their body weight is very small. Gardner victoriously stood in this tight circle most of his adult life.

Gardner R. Smith used his gifts of quick whit, fast thinking, athletic prowess and high intelligence to become a community role model for children and spoke to students at local and regional school assemblies, community events and holiday outreach efforts sponsored by his employer. Gardner located runaways and was actively enforcing statutes protecting children.

Gardner's natural charm and insightful cultural awareness allowed him to excel on the amateur comedy club circuit making the crowds roar with laughter and keeping potential hecklers quiet, not wanting to exchange whit with a mental giant like Gardner.  Gardner had a clean act with no profanity comedy for all ages.