ATLANTA — Friends, family and students say a beloved high school teacher shot and killed was an inspiration to all.
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“He was the most amazing person I know,” longtime friend Steve Jones said.
Jones is talking about Westlake High School teacher Kelvin Smith. People who knew him used words like awesome, a giver, dedicated and caring.
“Just an amazing man,” Dr. Dan Sims said.
Smith’s daughter-in-law says he was like a father to her.
“He was the best granddad. I made him a grandfather,” Kiyana Fields told Channel 2’s Tom Jones.
Friends and family say Smith went from a career as an engineer with UPS to teaching, because he wanted to teach his own kids. They say he then fell in love with education and would do whatever it took to inspire kids.
“He knew how to get down to students’ level and never lost that fun-loving spirit,” Sims said.
Sims says you can see it in a video where Smith challenged a student to a dance contest and admitted he lost.
Smith is no longer alive after his family says he was killed by his younger brother on Head Road in southwest Atlanta on Oct. 6. Atlanta police say the person who shot Smith then killed himself.
Smith’s friends didn’t want to focus on what happened.
“It’s sad, man, but the memories we have. Makes you smile, man,” Jones said with a wide grin.
Memories of Smith loving life, pouring into his students in and out of class.
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His daughter-in-law says he may be gone physically.
“His body has moved forward, but his spirit is everywhere all at once,” Fields said.
Smith’s older son told Jones Smith was a phenomenal leader and father figure.
The principal at Westlake High sent the following statement to Channel 2 Action News: “Kelvin Smith was a wonderful addition to the Westlake High School family, and we are devastated by this heartbreaking tragedy. Mr. Smith brought an extraordinary passion for teaching, a genuine love for students, and a positive spirit that touched everyone around him. He was known for his ability to connect with young people, encourage them to reach their full potential, and make them feel valued and supported. His dedication to education and to helping others was evident every day he walked through our doors.”
KIPP Atlanta Schools, where Smith previously taught, also sent a statement: “The KIPP Atlanta Schools community is saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Kelvin Smith, a former educator in our network.
Mr. Smith taught at KIPP WAYS and was a founder teacher at KIPP Woodson Park Academy. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, former students, and everyone grieving this loss. Our thoughts are with the Smith family and all who are mourning at this time."
The family has set up a GoFundMe account to help with funeral expenses, therapy and other related matters. Click here if you would like to help.
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