Jerry Hensley, Gilmer County’s coroner since 1991, announces his intent to seek re-election in the May 19 Republican Primary.
Hensley is a 1973 graduate of Gilmer High School and a 1974 graduate of Gupton-Jones College of Mortuary Science (now Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service). He has been married to Debbie Morrow Hensley for 44 years. They have two grown sons, Bryan and Nathan, and four grandchildren. Hensley is a member of Mount Vernon Baptist Church.
He states he continues to operate the coroner’s office efficiently while maintaining the county’s second lowest budget. Hensley and his two certified deputy coroners, Melissa Waddell and Brian Nealey, have a combined 49 years of death investigation experience. Nealey is also a 2001 graduate of Gupton-Jones College of Mortuary Science. All three coroners maintain their certification by receiving the state-mandated 24 hours of continuing education annually.
He says, “I pledge to continue serving the citizens of Gilmer County in a professional and efficient manner all while staying within budget and maintaining the same level of service.
“My staff and I will continue to provide prompt service, as well as handling families compassionately in their time of grief. Your vote and continued support would be greatly appreciated May 19.”