Remembering Jimmy Neil Smith

I realized that we were doing something really special and it would be something that I wanted to commit my life to.  – Jimmy Neil Smith

A public bench will be dedicated Wednesday, April 16, in memory of Jimmy Neil Smith, former mayor of Jonesborough and founder and president emeritus of the International Storytelling Center.

The dedication ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. on the Plaza of the International Storytelling Center, with a brief program and light refreshments to follow.

Smith served as mayor of Jonesborough and was instrumental in founding both the National Storytelling Festival and the International Storytelling Center. He is remembered by many as an inspiring force who left a lasting impression on the town and all who knew him.

Leading up to the event, the Town of Jonesborough and the Storytelling Center are collecting stories and memories about Smith. Community members are encouraged to submit their stories by clicking the button above.

In honor of his legacy, the Jonesborough Board of Mayor and Aldermen will issue a proclamation during its April 14 meeting declaring the week of April 13 as Jimmy Neil Smith Week in the town.

The public is invited to attend the dedication and celebrate the life and legacy of a man who helped define Jonesborough’s identity through the power of storytelling.

Have A Memory of Jimmy Neil Smith You Want To Share?