IN MEMORY OF OUR BELOVED SHS SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE MEMBERS
We extend our deepest gratitude and heartfelt remembrance to a few of the founding members of the Sparta High School (SHS) Scholarship Committee who are no longer with us. Their unwavering dedication, vision, and service since the committee’s inception laid the foundation for countless opportunities and lasting impact. Their legacy continues to inspire our mission and guide our work. We honor their memory with sincere appreciation.
Henry L. Simmons, Sr.
Henry L. Simmons was born on February 17, 1955, to the late Willie James Simmons, Sr. and Ceaser Tye Simmons in Devereaux, Georgia. Henry attended the public schools of Hancock County and graduated from Sparta High School in 1973. He entered the United States Army immediately after graduation and retired as a Captain in 1993. Henry was a highly respected and decorated officer in the United States Army with 20 years of dedicated service. Known for his leadership, integrity, and commitment to duty, his career reflects unwavering patriotism, professional excellence, and a legacy of honor and sacrifice. Henry later served as a devoted member of the Sparta High School Scholarship committee.
He was married to his wife of 31 years, Kathy Brown Simmons of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. He has three sons, Henry L. Simmons, Jr., Derrick (Lynn) Simmons, James L. Andrews II; five siblings, five grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Yvonne Smith
Yvonne Smith was born on May 23, 1955, to the late Chester and Lillie Way Smith. Yvonne attended school in Hancock County and graduated from Sparta High School in 1973. She began her military career at 25 years old as she enlisted in the United States Army. She retired as a Master Sergeant in 2015, after serving her country for 33 years, 8 months. She enjoyed traveling, gardening, swimming, crafts, working on special projects, and spending time with family and friends. Yvonne served as the finance chairperson for the SHS Scholarship Fund, where she served faithfully and was unwavering in her commitment to accountability and accuracy of financial records.
Yvonne is survived by her husband, Charlie, whom she married on August 29, 1998; one son, Kawaski Smith, one grandchild, stepmother, two stepdaughters, six step-grandchildren; six siblings, a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Belinda greene Watson
Belinda Greene Watson was born on August 1, 1955, to the late Willie P. and Corlene Greene in Warrenton, Georgia. Belinda attended the Hancock County School System and graduated from the Sparta High School in 1973. Belinda worked at various factories until she fulfilled her passion and dream to help others and began working at Central State Hospital for several years. Belinda’s passion included cooking, baking cakes, making her famous lemonade, planning gatherings and spending time with family. Belinda also enjoyed gardening beautiful flowers. Belinda served as the Benevolent Chairperson for the Sparta High School Scholarship Committee where she was dedicated to being present and ministering to those who had lost loved ones.
Belinda is survived by her husband, Reverend Robert Watson, Jr., her two children, Ronald R. Greene (Linda) and Chandra D. Warthen (Tremayne); five stepchildren, grandchildren and great grandchildren, seven siblings, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.