Grady Smith Elmore was born in Pickens County, Alabama where he attended Pickens County High School. After graduation Elmore went on to receive his B.S. degree from Jacksonville State University. He later received his Masters degree from Troy State University.

Elmore began his 33 year coaching career at Madison County High School in Gurley, Alabama. He coached football and basketball teams that finished undefeated seasons during his tenure.

Elmore was also the head football coach at Pickens County before taking a position with Lawrence County High School in 1945 as the head football coach. His six teams produced a 49-6-2 record during his stay at the school. The 1947 Red Devils finished the season 10-0 while the 1950 squad went 9-0-1.

In 1951 he moved to Cullman for three seasons. The 1956 football season found him as the head coach in Andalusia for four years, once again fielding a 10-0 team in 1958. That team was vote State Champions by the Birmingham News.

Elmore spent one season at Dale County High School before returning to Lawrence County in 1964 where he remained until his retirement following the 1970 season. Overall his teams had a 136-85-10 record during his tenure as a head football coach.

Coach Elmore, age 83, of Reform, passed away May 16, 1996 at his residence.