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The Downtown LaGrange Development Authority is raising money to fund a bench dedication to honor a former community member.

The DLDA plans to dedicate the bench in the memory of Jan Smith, a community advocate who passed away last November.

Smith was a LaGrange native and attended LaGrange College. She worked in the education system in Florida and Atlanta before returning to LaGrange where she eventually retired from Milliken and Company.

According to a Facebook post from the DLDA, Smith loved frequenting her favorite downtown shops and eateries, especially Marketplace at LaFayette Square, Charlie Joseph’s, Emberglow and Pretty Good Books.

She was an ardent supporter of LaGrange’s cultural arts scene and enjoyed attending art gallery openings, LaFayette Society Performing Arts’ plays and LaGrange Symphony Orchestra performances.

“Her presence is greatly missed by her downtown community of friends,” the post further read.

The bench will be located near Pretty Good Books on Church Street.

Barbie Watts, director of promotions and marketing for the DLDA, said the financial goal for the bench is $1,750.

The approximate cost of the bench is $2,000. The bench dedication will be held once the bench has been installed.

Donations may be made by mailing a check to Downtown LaGrange Development Authority                                                                                                                                          200 Main Street, Suite 1B, LaGrange, GA, 30240.

The memo line should be made to Jan Smith memorial bench.