Long-time Potter County football coach Vern Smith died on Monday, Feb. 12. Smith, 61, was surrounded by family at his home.

Smith was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer in Sept. 2023. Smith, a pillar at the Gettysburg High School for more than 30 years, had taken a leave of absence from his coaching and athletic director duties since his diagnosis. 

In recent months, Gettysburg, Hoven and surrounding communities organized fundraisers to Smith. At the homecoming football game, Potter County raised more than $32,000 (aided by two local donors) through free will donations for Smith’s medical expenses.