The Hubbard Chamber of Commerce will recognize Jerry Don Smithey, a 1979 graduate of Italy High School, at its 20th annual Chamber Banquet which will be held on Saturday, March 28, 6:00 p.m. at the Haralson Family Life Center in Hubbard.

The Hubbard Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has selected long time Corsicana fireman, Hubbard businessman and civic leader, Jerry Don Smithey, as the recipient of its Distinguished Citizen Award. Smithey willingly gives of his time and expertise for the betterment of our city. This award is in recognition of his community involvement and dedication to making Hubbard a better place to live.

Jerry was born September 30, 1960, the son of Don and Caroline Smithey, and grew up on the family farm and ranch operations located between Frost, Dawson, and Italy. During his growing up years he learned good work ethics from his dad and uncle as well as the value of a dollar. After graduating from Italy High School in 1979, he enrolled at Navarro College in Corsicana. Jerry had dreamed of being a fireman and applied for and passed the State exam for the City of Corsicana’s Fire Department. In January 1980, Jerry began his career as a fireman with the City of Corsicana. He successfully completed the Fire Academy in August 1980 and continued his education at Navarro College earning an Associates Degree. Smithey has been with the Corsicana Fire Department for 29 years and now holds the rank of Master Firefighter/EMT. He is a member of the International Association of Firefighters Local 1550.

It was while attending Navarro College that Jerry met and fell in love with Jeanette Anderson, daughter of Barbara and James Anderson of Hubbard. He says it was love at first sight! He moved to Hubbard in December 1985 and he and Jeanette married on August 16, 1986. Jeanette began her career as a teacher and coach in 1985 and has been at Hubbard High School since the fall of 1992. They are the proud parents of one daughter, 14-year-old Kristin.

Jeanette’s parents owned and operated Anderson Insurance Agency and they encouraged Jerry and Jeanette to obtain their insurance licenses. This began Jerry’s dual career as an insurance man and a fireman. In 2001, the Andersons sold the insurance agency to Bosque Insurance Agency. Jerry continued with the agency until 2004 and then joined the Branding Iron Insurance Agency. His office is located inside Citizens State Bank at 107 NW Third Street.

Jerry Don is dedicated to his family and to the Hubbard community, always striving to make a difference. He has served on the Hubbard Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors since January 1990 and can always be counted on to help with all Chamber-sponsored events. For more than 20 years he has been a member of the Hubbard Volunteer Fire Department and serves as its Fire Marshall. He has been a member of the Hubbard Lions Club for more than 20 years, is President of the Hubbard Wet Cats, is Vice-President of the Hubbard Ag FFA Booster Club, a member of the Hubbard Athletic Booster Club, serves on the Community Affairs Association’s Historic Fire Station Committee, and is a member of the Hubbard First United Methodist Church. Jerry approaches any of his professional, civic, or social endeavors with enthusiasm and a sense of commitment and pride. He demonstrates a genuine care and concern for his fellow man and his community.

In his “spare” time, Jerry enjoys spending time with family and friends. They enjoy camping and water sports at Navarro Mills Lake. He also likes hunting, fishing, golf, and spending time at the farm with his cattle; however, his greatest joy is to be involved with daughter Kristin and her many activities.

The Hubbard Chamber of Commerce salutes Jerry Don Smithey, a truly distinguished Hubbard citizen!