Earl H. Smith Jr.: A Sports Legend and Community Icon of Gary, Indiana

Memorial service celebrating the life of Earl H. Smith, Jr.  

Earl H. Smith, Jr., a revered figure in Gary, Indiana, whose contributions to local sports and education impacted generations, passed away on January 16, 2025, at the age of 90. His death marks the end of an era for the city, where he was not only a mentor and coach but also a pillar of the community.

Born on January 19, 1934, in Gary, Earl’s life was a testament to dedication, leadership, and a passion for sports. He was a multi-sport athlete during his time at Gary Roosevelt High School, excelling in track and field, football, and basketball. He played an integral role in Roosevelt’s first two IHSAA state championship-winning track teams in 1951 and 1952. As an individual, Earl also claimed the state championship in the long jump in both years. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to the University of Iowa, where he continued to shine, earning All-Big Ten honors in both football and track.

In 1957, Earl graduated from the University of Iowa, and his commitment to excellence only deepened throughout his life. He later went on to earn two master’s degrees from Indiana University in 1967 and 1974. Smith’s academic and athletic achievements were just the beginning of his legacy. Over a 56-year career with the Gary Community School Corporation, he contributed in various roles, including teacher, coach, dean, assistant principal, and Citywide Athletic Director. His leadership in the schools was marked by his ability to shape young lives, guiding them not only in athletics but also in personal development, responsibility, and community involvement.

Earl’s coaching career was as decorated as his athletic achievements. He coached a variety of sports at Gary’s high schools, including football, basketball, track and field, and golf. His basketball teams, in particular, were highly successful, with a record of 323 wins over 26 seasons. His teams won five conference titles, three sectionals, and three regionals, reaching the Elite Eight twice. One of his proudest moments came in 1977 when his Emerson team won the inaugural Hall of Fame Classic and reached No. 1 in the state polls.

Earl’s influence extended beyond the playing field. He was the first African American head coach at Froebel, Emerson, and Lew Wallace High Schools. His mentorship was not limited to the players he coached; he was a father figure to many young men and women in the community. Earl’s dedication to the growth and development of others earned him numerous accolades, including inductions into the Indiana Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1990, the Indiana Football Hall of Fame in 2007, and the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018. In 2023, he was honored with the IHSAA Ray Crowe Award for Excellence in Leadership, a prestigious recognition given for civic contributions and community legacy.

Outside of his professional career, Earl was deeply involved in his community. He was a lifelong member of St. Timothy Community Church, joining in 1944 and remaining an active member for over 80 years. He also served on the board of Edgewater Health and was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., pledging Gamma Chapter in 1956. Earl’s dedication to service and mentorship extended beyond the athletic world, making him a respected leader in Gary and beyond.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Sr. and Robbie Mae, his sister Earline, brothers Robert and Gerald, and his sister Denise, among others. He leaves behind his loving wife of 58 years, Roberta, their daughter Sherita, and son Earl III. Earl is also survived by his extended family, including sisters-in-law Ernestine, Melvina, and Louise, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service was held on January 25, 2025, at St. Timothy Community Church, where family, friends, and community members gathered to honor Earl’s incredible life. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations be made to the Gary Sports Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy will live on through the many athletes, students, and community members he inspired over the years.

Earl H. Smith, Jr. was more than just a coach or educator; he was a symbol of dedication, integrity, and love for his community. His impact will be felt for generations to come, and his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Recent News

Scroll to Top