05/23/2026
A Tribute to the Late Mrs. Judy Hayes:
Approximately 21 years ago, our founder and Executive Director, Evelyn Hickerson, had the honor of meeting Judy, a dedicated community leader in Williamson County, at her mother’s funeral. Evelyn fondly remembers Judy speaking so highly of her mother and expressing the deep love she held for both Josephine Gentry and her late father, James "Bubba" Gentry.
A few years ago, Joyce Smith reintroduced Gentry’s Educational Foundation to Judy. After being reminded of my parents' legacy, it became a true joy to converse with Judy about the history of old Franklin.
When Judy recently called Evelyn, she was full of excitement. They discussed the field of education, and she was ecstatic to share that she was a retired teacher. She expressed a profound concern for helping children advance both in their academic growth and their essential life skills.
Evelyn quickly learned that Judy was someone who never sought the limelight or individual praise. She truly exemplified what it means to be an "amazing angel" here on earth. Her life epitomized Mahalia Jackson's lyrics, "If I can help somebody along the way, then my living won't be in vain." She was a blessing to Williamson County.
Thank you, God, for our dear, beautiful Judy. She will be profoundly missed, but her legacy of genuine servitude will certainly continue.
