The good book says it is better to give than receive. Still it is a good thing when one who gives so much of herself receives a show of appreciation, love and gratitude by the many who she has helped along the way. This is what took place on Saturday, October 9th, when friends and family of Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce Director, Wilda Smith, gathered together at the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro to celebrate the 80th brithday of Jackson Parish’s “First Lady.”
While “polite behavior” modicum recommends that one should never mention the age of a lady, that does not apply here. Instead, in this case, it is celebrated with awe and admiration especially when considering the vitality, energy and dedicated effort Wilda gives in the promotion of the civil and business entities in Jackson Parish.
By most, Smith is mainly recognized as the longtime director of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce. In this capacity she spends countless hours promoting the business community of the parish and coordinating the yearly activities such as the Christmas Lights and Sunshine Festival, just to name a few.
What may not be known is she also serves on the board of the Jackson Parish Museum Board and Sports Hall of Fame. Smith is also a very active advocate for Jackson Parish Tourism Board, the Town of Jonesboro and several other Jackson Parish government entities as well as coordinating activites for the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro.
All of this in what she catergorizes as her being in her “semi-retired” state.
That is why mentioning that this iconic woman has turned 80 years old is apropo, as it is rare indeed and should be recognized, to find a person who does so much for so many others – at any age.
How much has she affected local residents and those who she works with? Here is a small sampling.
Darrell Avery, Assistant DA, JPCofC President: Until I became a JPCofC board member I did not have a real appreciation for the work Wilda does for Jackson Parish The love, energy, devotion and enthusiasm she has for our parish and its citizens is unrivaled She is not only a tireless crusader but also a genuinely nice, caring person. She has become a treasured friend. Happy Birthday Wilda!
Todd Culpepper, Jackson Parish Police Juror: Wilda has been a valuable asset for the promotion of Jackson Parish. We have been very fortunate to have her as our leader of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce, and I have truly enjoyed working with her through the years.
Barbara Johnson, President of Jackson Parish Museum Board: Wilda Is my classmate and lifelong friend. She was gone from Jonesboro for many years but when she came back to live, she was determined do all she could to promote our town in Parish. I can’t think of anyone who has done more. One of the areas she has bern so supportive in is in promoting the Jackson Parish Museum and Fine Arts Association. She is always eager to do beyond what is required of her as a member of the board. Wishing Wilda a very happy birthday and a wonderful 2023.
(Editor’s Note:) I never knew how important Wilda was to the people and businesses in Jackson Parish and Jonesboro until I started the Jackson Parish Journal a few years back. Many of the items that are published weekly about what is going on in our area is due to Wilda bringing them to my attention and providing supporting documents. It has been a great blessing to able to work closely with Wilda and get to know her personally as her energy and devotion is unbelievable and a great inspiration. Happy Birthday!