Jerry Faris grew up in Kennett, Missouri. After high school, Jerry enlisted in the army. He spent 20 years in the armed forces including a twelve-month stint in Vietnam. Jerry was stationed at Fort Hood Texas when he retired. When asked how he made his way to Trigg County to settle down, Jerry had a simple answer. “I was married to a Trigg County girl”, stated Faris. He is married to the former Sue Allen from Linton. When Jerry decided to make Trigg County his home, he also made another decision. He made the sports teams of Trigg County his teams.
Jerry said he has always loved high school and college sports, but he doesn’t care about pro sports at all. When he came here in 1985, the first Trigg sports team he watched was Al Baker’s football team. He hasn’t stopped attending games since. Jerry is a regular at football, golf, baseball, softball, powerlifting, boys’ and girls’ basketball and track events.
You might notice that Jerry usually travels to games alone. The reason for this is that he never knows exactly what time he will get off from work. Faris works as a truck driver for Fortner Gas Company. He also does not want to miss the kickoff waiting on someone.
Jerry has been honored as fan of the year by the basketball, football and golf programs. He has contributed not only by his attendance but in other ways as well. Just recently, Jerry put on a golf scramble for the baseball team. He has sold raffle tickets for teams and purchased about everything possible that is peddled at ballgames. Jerry has also put on golf tournaments for missionaries to spread the gospel overseas.
One of the most unique things about Jerry Faris is his consistent attitude. He has been a great friend to many coaches since he has been here. Jerry is slow to criticize, but quick to support.
Some of Jerry’s favorite teams he has followed at Trigg include the 89’ state runner-up football team and the 97’ regional championship basketball team.
Jerry was diagnosed with lung cancer four years ago. He had to miss a few games then during his treatments, but not many. He stated that his doctors tell him that only scar tissue is showing up on his scans now.
To read the conclusion of this column, pick up the latest edition of The Cadiz Record.
