Sales Representative, Jernigan Healthcare
Words by Anna Lee Vaughn | Image by Ryan McGill
Jeremy Barrentine is a lifelong resident of Walker County. His roots within the community have inspired his roles as Vice Chairman of the Walker County Republican Party and a board member at Musgrove Country Club. His wife, Joeletta, serves as a Circuit Judge, further connecting his family to the area.
“I love our community because we look out for each other. When someone needs something, there are always people there to lend a hand,” Jeremy says.
After graduating from Walker High School, Jeremy knew he wanted to serve the community in a healthcare role, but he sought a path different from the traditional route of nursing. While exploring his options, he read an article about emerging medical careers and became intrigued by diagnostic medical sonography and respiratory therapy.
He ultimately decided to pursue respiratory therapy at Shelton State Community College, where he immediately fell in love with the field. While studying, Jeremy gained valuable experience working in the respiratory department at Walker Baptist Medical Center during weekends. After completing his education, he transitioned to full-time work. However, the birth of his son, Jase, prompted a shift in his career direction.
“As Jase grew up, I didn’t want to work weekends. I had always been interested in the sales side of things, so I started working in the sleep lab to learn more about that and focus on the sleep side of respiratory therapy,” says Jeremy.
Jeremy enjoyed his work in respiratory therapy, and a new schedule enabled him to eventually transition to working as a medical equipment salesman. When the company he worked for was sold, he considered starting his own business. During this time, however, he met the owner of Jernigan Healthcare, a medical supply and equipment company based in Fultondale, Alabama. Jeremy joined forces as a sales representative for the company, and a twenty-plus-year relationship developed. Through expansions and much success, Jernigan and Jeremy’s discussions led to the idea of establishing a Jernigan Healthcare location in Jasper. This dream became a reality, and Jeremy now serves the people of Walker County and surrounding areas at Jernigan Healthcare in downtown Jasper.
“It’s been one of the greatest decisions of my life. The Jernigans are a wonderful family to work for and with. We’ve got the same goals in mind, and we work together in such a great way,” says Jeremy. “I love the fact that I can service patients with equipment I know about and sell it to doctors I worked for over the years. I love Jasper. I’ve formed so many relationships here, and it’s an honor to serve the community this way.” WL
