BY HANNAH LESTER
HLESTER@
OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM
OPELIKA —
Last week the Opelika Chamber of Commerce held its annual meeting and presented awards to local businesses and influential members of the community.
The Spirit of Opelika award was presented to Dozier Smith T by Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller.
Smith T graduated from Opelika High School, then went on to receive his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Auburn University. Although he moved to Birmingham for as short period of time, Opelika called him home, Fuller said.
“It has been the joy of his life to both work with his father and then, as the owner/operator of Winston Smith T Building Supply since his father’s death in 2007,” Fuller said. “While in Opelika, Dozier Smith T has been very active in multiple civic organizations.”
Some of these organizations and boards include the Rotary Club of Opelika, EAMC’s board, Bancorp’s Board and the Dixie Youth Board. He also served as the Ward 3 Opelika Council Member.
“His service to Opelika on the city council was motivated by his love of our community,” said a statement from his wife and sister. “It kept him busy but he rarely missed a baseball game, a piano recital or a tennis match for his six children.
“I’m sure most of you can think of examples where he has stopped what he was doing to listen, or to pray with you or to laugh with you, because he really is a lot of fun. But most importantly, Dozier lives out his faith as a friend, as a brother, as a father and a husband.
He would be the first to tell you, each of you, that he is who he is only because of his savior Jesus Christ. And to Him give all the glory.”