Born in Montgomery, West Virginia, on Dec. 18, 1949, to the late George Sr. and Betty Smailes, George Smailes’ life has been defined by service, leadership and dedication to community. He graduated from Huntington East High School in 1967 and then attended Marshall University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in education in 1971.
In 1968, while still a student, Smailes began part-time work at the Huntington YMCA as a building supervisor. What started as a college job soon became a life’s calling. After graduation, he accepted a full-time position, beginning what would become 49 years of service to the YMCA and to the Huntington community. Over the years, Smailesserved in many roles: supervisor, physical director, assistant director, associate executive director and, ultimately, director.
With the support of staff and volunteers, he helped create The Encourage Program, launched YMCA soccer and day care initiatives, and partnered with St. Mary’s Medical Center to establish Kids In Motion, a program designed to fight childhood obesity.
He also taught physical education and health at St. Joseph middle and high schools, raising funds to support YMCA youth programs.
In later years, Smailes spearheaded an initiative that included Jack Jones, Phil Cline and the YMCA Board of Directors, to launch the Capital Campaign that made possible the construction of the new gym at the Phil Cline YMCA. He also partnered with Marshall University’s Athletic Department to help provide the Marshall Baseball team with a home field, now known as the George T. Smailes Sr. Baseball Field, honoring his father’s dedication to the community.
