It’s an absolute joy when you meet a person who embodies true servant leadership. In her role at Henry County Medical Center [HCMC], Evelyn Etheridge lived a life of dedication, compassion, and faith while serving each and every patient and family that crossed her path. For over four decades, Evelyn poured into our community and became an inspirational light to everyone around her.
Evelyn began her career at HCMC shortly after graduating from high school. Her passion for care sparked when she took a nursing assistant course in her senior year. She knew then that she needed to be in a field where she could care for others. Initially working as a nursing assistant for ten years, Evelyn provided essential care to patients and helped them complete their daily activities. Her hands-on role allowed her to build close relationships with patients and their families, a part of her job she cherished deeply.
Later, Evelyn transitioned to the role of a unit secretary and stayed there for 33 more years. This new position allowed her to serve others in a different capacity, through transcribing orders, scheduling follow-up appointments, and coordinating transfers to and from other hospitals. Even though she wasn’t working directly with patients any longer, Evelyn continued to view her role as serving and caring for others by helping them receive the care they needed.
It was in this position that Evelyn found her home at HCMC. Over the years. She felt she was always treated with the utmost respect from her coworkers and everyone at HCMC. She also developed into a vital member of the team and understood how important she was to the overall flow of the department. Through her consistent Christian walk and ability to keep calm throughout the storm, everyone looked to Evelyn as a role model and leader. Whether they needed answers, problem-solving, guidance, or just a word of encouragement, it could always be found in Evelyn.
Evelyn attributes her success at HCMC and in everything she’s ever done to her faith. She felt her work was her calling and that God specifically equipped her with what she needed to complete His plan for her life. Her time at HCMC allowed her to be a witness of His faithful love, compassion, mercy, and grace to those around her.
This commitment to work and faith is mirrored in Evelyn’s personal life. She and her husband Billy have been married for 28 years. Over the years they have raised 10 children, even taking in children from family members and raising them as their own. Evelyn attributes the success of her marriage and family life to listening to God first followed by truly listening to your spouse. She believes that putting God first is the key to a successful and fulfilling life, a principle that has guided her both professionally and personally.
Evelyn’s story at HCMC is one of dedication, compassion, and faith. Her 43 years at HCMC are a testament to her commitment to serving others, her ability to adapt, and her deep faith in God. As she reflects on her career, Evelyn is proud of the impact she has made and the relationships she has built. She will always consider herself a champion of HCMC because she has seen firsthand the impact that caring professionals can make in someone’s life. Her legacy is one of love, care, and unwavering faith, inspiring all who know her.
At HCMC, we’re proud to be a part of a team whose members put others before themselves. Caring for our patients and community will always continue to be at the forefront of our mission.