Scott Alexander Smith, 67, of Altamonte Springs FL, passed away on September 5, 2023. He was born in Knoxville, TN on October 29, 1955. Scott’s life was a beautiful tapestry of passion, sportsmanship, and devotion to family and friends.
Scott graduated from Winter Park High School and pursued higher education at the University of Kentucky, where he became a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. His journey in tennis, a sport played by his entire family, began at the tender age of 7. From the moment he picked up a racquet he was often found playing.
During his high school years at Winter Park, Scott was a formidable force on the tennis court. He played #1 singles and doubles and clinched the Florida High School Athletic Association district titles in doubles during his junior and senior years. Throughout his high school career, he was not only named All-District but also ranked #1 in the State in doubles and #3 in singles. Nationally, he was a standout, ranking 13th and earning the title of All-American.
His excellence in tennis extended to the University of Kentucky, where he made history by being the first inductee into the University of Kentucky Tennis Hall of Fame. For four consecutive years, he played #1 singles and doubles, achieving the remarkable distinction of being a three-time All-SEC player. He was also the first UK player to qualify for the NCAA playoffs.
After his college career, Scott embarked on a journey of teaching and coaching tennis, leaving an indelible mark on countless aspiring players of all ages. He shared his expertise and worked at various clubs, including the Lexington Tennis Club, Idle Hour Country Club, and Interlachen Country Club. He also founded the World Class Tennis Corporation.
Beyond tennis, Scott was a man of diverse interests. He found joy in coaching young athletes, helping them in their journeys to reach their full potential. He had a passion for golf, a love for swimming, and an unwavering devotion to his circle of friends and family. His stories and sense of humor had a remarkable ability to bring smiles to those around him. His own smile, always warm, sometimes mischievous, always seemed to be contagious.
Scott was preceded in death by his parents Nathan S. Smith Sr. and Elizabeth “Libby” Smith.
Scott is survived by his loving wife Lisa B. Smith, his son Trey S. Smith (Kristin “Kay” Schaare), his brother Nathan S. Smith Jr. (Pam Smith), his sister Kimberly “Kiki” Flynn (Pete Flynn), and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral arrangements will be held at Baldwin Fairchild in Altamonte Springs, FL, on Sunday, September 17, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.