When Hurricane Helene roared through the lower part of Washington County September 27, it destroyed the longtime home of Gerald and Pat Peterson, leaving nothing but the mobile home’s foundation in its wake.
In less than five weeks’ time Washington County Commissioner Richard Tucker volunteered his services and put together a team of home builders, in conjunction with Appalachia Service Project, to place the Petersons into a brand-new home at 256 Bill Mauk Road.
Tucker says the build was a blessing to all who had the opportunity to serve the couple.
“The blessing for me is seeing this community come together to do this…everybody in this area has stepped up their game plan to help these people in need,” Tucker said during a ceremony at the house. He gave special recognition to Mayor Joe Grandy for his exemplary leadership during the County’s crisis and thanked those who were able to quickly turn building permits.
Tucker, the owner of Tucker Home Builders, added extra touches to the home that he refers to as a “doll house.” Those touches include a tile backsplash, granite counters and a back porch with a breathtaking view of the mountains. Tucker completely furnished the home with the help of generous donors and he and his family enjoyed shopping for lamps and other decorative items. The Embreeville Cove Missionary Baptist Church even provided a fully stocked pantry. Tucker would not let the couple see the completed home until their Thursday walk-through and they were thrilled at what they saw.
The Petersons said they were particularly excited to be presented with the keys to their new home just in time for Christmas. Pastor Brian Brown of the Embreeville Cove Missionary Baptist Church blessed the home prior to the move in. Everyone involved with building the house cut a ribbon and Tucker presented the Petersons with a sign for their new home that said, “When in doubt pray.”
To view a short video interview with Commissioner Tucker, visit the Washington County, TN YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izjJ1Cvzres.
Photo left to right: Pastor Brian Brown, Washington County Commissioner Richard Tucker, Pat and Gerald Peterson, Washington County Mayor Joe Grandy