Thirty years ago this month, Habersham County lost one of its own.
On Feb. 20, 1996, Habersham County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Scott Smith, a 25-year-old resident of Alto, was killed in the line of duty. He remains the first Habersham County deputy to die while serving the community.
Smith died when his patrol vehicle left the roadway along Hollywood Highway, traveled down an embankment, and overturned in Glade Creek. Authorities at the time were unable to determine the exact cause of the crash.
His funeral service was held at Hollywood Baptist Church, where approximately 500 mourners gathered to honor his life. Nearly 40 law enforcement agencies from across the region — including the Georgia State Patrol and officers from surrounding cities — attended in a show of respect and solidarity. The church was filled beyond capacity, with many standing along the walls and outside.
Those who knew Smith remembered him not only as a dedicated deputy, but as a man whose personality drew people in. During the service, he was described as a joyful young man who treated others with kindness and respect. Family members reflected on how his life had touched many and spoke of the responsibility to ensure his young son would grow up understanding his father’s commitment to protecting others.
Smith had dreamed of a career in law enforcement since childhood. A graduate of Habersham Central High School, he had lived his entire life in the county and served as a deputy for three years before his death.
Sheriff Nix at the time described him as faithful to his job and dependable — someone who could always be counted on. Those closest to him remembered him as devoted to his family and proud of his role as a husband and father.
Three decades later, Deputy Scott Smith’s sacrifice remains part of Habersham County’s history. His name stands as a reminder of the risks law enforcement officers accept each day and of the enduring impact one life can have on a community.
As Habersham continues to grow, the memory of Deputy Smith serves as a quiet but lasting tribute to service, faithfulness, and duty.
