Gray named ‘Jefferson Countian’
Helen Gray was recognized as the 2015 ‘Jefferson Countian of the Year’ during the annual Chamber of Commerce banquet Friday night
‘Jefferson Countian of the Year’
Though her family and friends may say that she likes to “fly under the radar,” Helen Taylor Gray did anything but that at the 33rd annual Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce Banquet Friday night. Gray was honored as the 2015 Jefferson Countian of the year for her immeasurable dedication to Jefferson County throughout her life.
In its annual presentation at the conclusion of the banquet, First Tennessee Bank recognized Gray for many acts of historical love and commitment to landmarks, events, and organizations in the county.
“Her love of history is matched by her love of fellow man,” said Bob Jarnagin, who presented Gray with her award on behalf of First Tennessee Bank.
Having served Jefferson County for over 45 years, Gray devoted countless hours and energy to causes and events that held importance to her, and, in turn, to all residents. Gray has helped maintain the historical site that is Glenmore Mansion in Jefferson City, vowing to pass it on to the next generation in better condition that what it was.
“It might not even be there today if it wasn’t for our honoree,” Jarnagin said.
Near Glenmore Mansion stands Old Branner Cemetery, which was hidden by trees and undergrowth at one point in time. Jarnagin noted that Gray and her group of volunteers “took it back from the woodland,” restoring it to its former glory.
After all, that very cemetery holds some of the founders of both Carson-Newman and Jefferson City itself.
In 1980, a bulldozer was rearing and ready to take down the one room school that now sits adjacent to Jefferson Middle School. Jarnagin proudly stated that Mrs. Gray jumped in front of that bulldozer saying, “You can’t tear this down!”
Gray was extremely instrumental in raising the funds to preserve the schoolhouse and move it to its current site.
As is evident through her acts of preservation and dedication to the county, Gray is very involved with upholding the historical integrity of Jefferson County. She served as an officer in the Association for the Preservation of Tennessee Antiquities, as well as taking part in the Jefferson County Genealogical and Historical societies.
Gray has also been involved in many milestone events, such as the Tennessee Homecoming of 1986, as well as the Jefferson County Bicentennial Celebration.
Throughout her years of service, Gray has also been vital in various organizations and community events that are still enjoyed today. She has been involved in the Jefferson County chapter of the American Cancer Society, the Celebrity Waiter Dinner, which will once again be celebrated this weekend, and began the first angel tree Christmas drive.
Although Gray was unable to make her way to the stage to accept her award, she was presented with her plaque at her seat with a standing ovation surrounding her with thanks. The gratitude was evident in her smile and the tears of her guests.
Gray may have tried to “fly under the radar” for all of these years, but her accomplishments and love for Jefferson County stood at the forefront of the banquet, and have left a legacy behind for many generations to acknowledge in years to come.
By Katey Hopkins – The Standard Banner Reporter | Monday, February 9, 2015