THE BROOKSVILLE CITY COUNCIL NAMES JOEL “WARDY” SMITH AS THE
2024 GREAT BROOKSVILLIAN
Brooksville, Florida (October 29, 2024) - The 2024 Great Brooksvillian Award was presented to Joel "Wardy" Smith on October 23, 2024. Joel "Wardy" Smith was recognized for his outstanding and significant positive contributions to the history, culture, and economy of Brooksville through his citrus business and humanitarian efforts.
Joel "Wardy" Smith was the first local citrus grower to ship fruit from Brooksville to New York City by refrigerated train car. He also created a baseball diamond in his pasture for African American community members to use, purchased a stained-glass window for the First United Methodist Church, and donated land to the Humane Society.
The Brooksvillle City council presented a plaque to Wardy’s family in recognition of his contributions to the community. His grandson, KO “Kerry” Smith, reminisced on Joel “Wardy” Smith’s kindness, determination, and whit. He also shared funny stories about his grandfather with the audience. Joel “Wardy” Smith’s name was added to the "Great Brooksvillian Honoree's" plaque that hangs in Brooksville's City Hall. The plaque can be found on the first floor next to the lobby.
The Great Brooksvillian is an annual program, whereby the City of Brooksville recognizes outstanding men and women who have made significant positive contributions to the history, culture and/or economy of our great community. Each year, the Brooksville City Council asks for nominations for this prestigious award. The Great Brooksvillian Award is then selected annually by the Brooksville City Council from a list of nominees selected by the Great 10/29/2024 P&R PR# 24-39– City of Brooksville
Brooksvillian Screening Committee. For more information about the Great Brooksvillian, visit the Great Brooksvillian Screening Committee page on the City of Brooksville website:
Great Brooksvillian Screening Committee | Brooksville, FL
Joel “Wardy” Smith’s family, who accepted his plaque on his behalf
From left to right: David Miller, K.O “Kerry” Smith, Councilwoman Jody Young, Vice Mayor Christa Tanner, and Joel “Wardy” Smith’s family
