Nine graduates of Trigg County High School were honored for their accomplishments Saturday when they were inducted into the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame.
The second class of distinguished alumni includes the late Trigg County Judge Executive Zelner Cossey, Dr. Perry Grigsby, Mary Ann Lander, Desiree Acree Moore, Dr. George Thomas, Dan Thomas, Roger Vinson, Tom Vinson, and Dr. Lance Wiist.
Judge Zelner Cossey was remembered for his dedication to Trigg County during his service as both County Judge, Sheriff, and County Judge Executive for multiple terms. It was also noted that Governor Brereton Jones was among those attending his funeral.
Dr. Perry Grigsby was recognized for his career as a radiologist, his work with nuclear medicine, and his work in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Grigsby recalled a story from his high school days of the only time he did not make the honor roll.
Mary Ann Lander noted the honor was not only for her, but all those she worked with during her career as a teacher and administrator in Trigg County Schools.
Desiree Acree Moore credited growing up in Cadiz with helping her have a successful 25-year career in the U.S. Air Force.
Dr. George Thomas, who is retired following a career of working in emergency rooms in Bowling Green and Cadiz, shared a number of stories about growing up in Cadiz but summed up his remarks by noting that prepared him for his life and career.
His older brother Dan Thomas, who retired following a career that began as a high school teacher and later took him to work in the state and federal judicial systems, noted Cadiz has changed since they grew up but continues to be a wonderful community.
Stephanie Vinson Perry accepted the honor for the late Judge Roger Vinson, noting that her uncle was always proud of his heritage.
The late Tom Vinson’s son Carey noted his father, an avid historian who served many years as a teacher and administrator in the Trigg County School system, always had a passion for history and education.
Dr. Lance Wiist, who worked as an OB/GYN physician and surgeon, credited moving to Trigg County in 1967 with his family as a turning point.
click to download audioEach recipient of their family received a plaque, with a second plaque noting their accomplishments to hang in Trigg County High School with a QR code on each to allow students to read their biographies.
Also during the program, the class of 1973 was honored for their 50th anniversary. Alumni Association President Debbie Clark recognized Sondrey Cossey from the class of 1958 as being the oldest person to attend, with J. B. Hendricks from the class of 2015 recognized as the youngest graduate, and Desiree Acree Moore honored for traveling the longest distance to attend.
Photos by Jennie Watts
