Words by Anna Lee Vaughn | Images by Al Blanton and courtesy of Jerry Guthrie
Jerry Guthrie has retired after 27 years of serving as the Walker County Revenue Commissioner.
His transition from a detective with the Walker County Sheriff’s Office to running for revenue commissioner was prompted by the retirement of former revenue commissioner Ken Hamilton.
Several local judges urged Jerry to run for the position. When he realized the opportunity to provide more money and time for his family, Jerry pursued it.
He was elected in November 1996 and officially began his service on October 1, 1997.
“I learned everything about it over the years because I had never worked in a position like this before, but I had been around the people of Walker County my whole life, and I knew how to work with them,” says Jerry. “So, I went into the position surrounded by people with lots of experience, and I listened and learned from them.”
From being surrounded by amazing mentors to selecting his team, Jerry has embraced the importance of having good people in his corner.
Even after retirement, Jerry still brags about his team, stating, “They have made me look really good out there. They have been my employees and responsibility, but we have had a great time together. I’m proud of every one of them, and I have full confidence in their abilities to do the job right.”
Jerry has always been a family man, and in his retirement, he plans to follow his grandkids around to their sporting events to be their biggest supporter.
He praises the phenomenal friends, family, and coworkers who have surrounded him throughout his 70 years of life. Looking forward to his retirement, he says one thing is for sure: “The Lord has always provided for me!” WL
