George A. Smith, an Ohio breeder and owner of Thoroughbreds, passed away at the age of 84 after a bout with a sudden illness. Over the years, Smith played a major role in the shaping of the state's breeding industry with his Woodburn Farm in Centerville, Ohio. The 110-acre farm became one of the most prominent thoroughbred facilities in the Midwest, raising numerous stakes winners, state champions and graded stakes winners.
Smith served as President of the Ohio Thoroughbred Breeders & Owners from 1978-1979, in addition to serving as a Governor appointee on the Thoroughbred Advisory Board.
Smith is a graduate of Ohio State University and was a three-year letterman and captain of the varsity golf team. In his senior season, he led the team to win the Big Ten Championship by 22 strokes and was regarded as one of the top amateur players in the nation.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 2 at the Saint George Episcopal Church in Centerville. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in George's memory to Old Friends Farm, 1841 Paynes Depot Rd., Georgetown, Kentucky, 40324.
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