Ray Lawrence

Background

He was born, raised, and lived his entire life in the Sevier County community of Dupont.

Education

He attended Harrison-Chilhowee Baptist Academy and became the first member of his family to graduate from high school.

Career

Reagan was the first of 10 children born to Lawrence Clifford Reagan and Neva Householder Reagan. During World World War II, he served in the Army Air Corps, working as a mechanic and pilot. His first public office was justice of the peace, beginning in 1956.

He was elected county judge in 1958, and was subsequently re-elected for 8-year terms in 1966 and 1974.

As county judge, he spearheaded efforts to attract new industry to diversify the economy of Sevier County, which previously depended on agriculture and tourism. During his tenure, the Sevier County Industrial Park was developed, a new hospital (Sevier County Medical Center) was built, the Gatlinburg–Pigeon Forge Airport was built, and the county courthouse in Sevierville was remodeled.

Judge Reagan served on state commissions and advisory boards on county government. Reagan died from cancer in 1978.

Achievements

• Since his death, his accomplishments have been recognized by the Tennessee State Route 66 bridge over the French Broad River being named in his memory and the Sevier County Industrial Park being renamed the Ray L. Reagan Industrial Park.