I’m Veronica Kincaid, and I’m blessed to say that I have lived in East Ellijay my entire life.
I’m the daughter of Gail Painter and the late Ronnie Kincaid. My grandparents, Jim and Dorothy Kincaid, raised me on the same street where I still live today.
My daughter Caitlin, son-in-law Caleb and granddaughter Saylah Mae also live in East Ellijay, where my daughter and I grew up. It happens to be one of the oldest homes in “East Town,” dating back to around 1910.
My papaw, James “Jim” Kincaid, served East Ellijay as a police officer on the very first East Ellijay Police force. He also served as deputy to the late Sheriff Robert Worley.
My great-grandfather’s (Cecil Whitaker) home once stood in the location now known as the “Ben Whitaker Intersection.” The next intersection south holds the name of my great-great-grandmother, Cora Williams. My family roots run deep here, and I’m extremely proud of my family heritage.
I attended preschool at the “Little Red School House” that is now the location of East Ellijay City Hall and the police department. I attended East Ellijay school through my fourth grade year, after which it was torn down.
I own and operate a Georgia Cottage bakery, “Roni’s Bakery,” in my home. I currently serve on the Gilmer County Library Board of Trustees representing East Ellijay.
The late East Ellijay Mayor, Mack West, along with my great-uncle, Ben Whitaker, left a great legacy here. All of Ellijay and Gilmer County benefit today from their outstanding leadership and what they brought to East Ellijay.
Being a lifelong resident, I will always stand in the best interest of the citizens of East Ellijay. It would be a great honor to serve my hometown.