Continuing a Legacy: Georgia Teen Takes Over His Family Farm After His Father’s Passing

Waylon NeSmith says continuing the operation is a way to carry on the lessons and legacy his father left behind.

TIFTON, Ga. (Farm Monitor) — Most teens are still figuring out what they want to do in life. However, for one young Georgia farmer, that answer came early after an unexpected loss changed the future of his family’s farm.

High school student Waylon NeSmith has taken over his family’s operation following the passing of his father.

NeSmith says that farming alongside his dad was never just about getting work done. It was time spent together and lessons learned through everyday moments in the field.

“I remember that there was never a dull moment with him. He was always joking. It was never serious. We just always played around, but we got stuff done, but we always made a good time doing it.”

Now, with support from his family and community, he is continuing the work his father started.

Nesmith says the farm is no longer just part of his family’s history, but has become his future.

Related Stories
The North Carolina Farm Bureau highlights the work being done on Sound Mind Farms, a farm producing hemp to make sustainable fabrics.
After losing her sight, Missouri FarmHER Alda Owen built a life on her terms — then Sweet Baby Joe came along to take it even further.
The Nashville Ag Club meets monthly to discuss current issues and hear from inspiring agriculture-related speakers.
Dirt Diaries is where women in agriculture pull back the curtain and get real. The latest episode features Zoe Kent, known online as Farm with Zoe!
The Cotton Jassid previously detected in Georgia has now made its way to the Lone Star State.