Joseph Fitzhugh graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, Atlanta, Georgia in 1947 after being drafted into the U. S. Army in 1945.

In September 1953, Joseph Fitzhugh became the Physical Education instructor, coach and athletic director at East Depot High School where he remained until 1970.

While in LaGrange, Georgia, Joseph Fitzhugh was a favorite high school teacher to many students at East Depot High School.

Mrs. Frances Smith, widow of the Inquirer’s late publisher, born and raised in LaGrange, Georgia, recalls Joseph Fitzhugh as being one of her favorite teachers at East Depot High School.

As John B. Smith, Sr. and wife Frances grew into adulthood and eventually married and had children, they both continued a strong friendship with Mr. and Mrs. Joseph (Vivian) Fitzhugh and the Fitzhugh family.