In a room full of sneakers, music, and laughter, one man stands out not for his moves alone, but for the life he’s lived. For 101 years, Harold “Smitty” Smith has been inspiring passion for fitness at the Bamford Multipurpose Center by showing that liveliness and happiness don’t end with age.
For two days in a week, a vibrant group has assembled for fitness classes at the center, whose motto is movement for all ages and all abilities. If anyone embodies that motto, it is Smitty.
A Life of Discipline, Faith, and Music
Once you reach 100, you start life over again,
Smith said.
“I was not a drinker. I stayed away from cursing. I was in World War II. I’d like everyone to know the scriptures, and know the Bible.”
A World War II veteran with unwavering faith, Smitty credits his remarkable longevity to clean living, a positive attitude, and a lifelong love of music.
“My favorite dance was the samba, But if I try it now, I’d probably fall down!”
These days, he prefers to groove from his chair, always in perfect rhythm, and rarely without his wife Isa by his side.
He said proudly.
“We’ve been married for 48 years. I sing my wife’s love songs now.”
Their energy and devotion make them the heart of the class and an inspiration for everyone watching.
Inspiring Others, One Step at a Time
instructor Rebecca Vetter Said,
“That’s our goal,to be half as great as Harold.”
Smitty exemplifies that age is just a state of mind; every step, every jiggle, every grin he shares reminds us that movement and joy are allowed expressly at that specific moment in time-and any time in life.
The class runs Tuesday and Friday mornings at the Bamford Multipurpose Center and always welcomes new participants. Smitty turns 102 on October 2, hoping people will come join him to celebrate another year of dancing, music, and joy to show that life-just like his samba-should be enjoyed to its fullest at every step!
