State Representative Mike Sparks (R–Smyrna, 49th District) and State Senator Bill Ketron (R–Murfreesboro, 13th District) passed recently passed legislation to rename a portion of West Jefferson Pike in Smyrna in honor of lifelong Smyrna resident Ernie Johns, Saturday, November 21.
Ernie Johns is a well-known member of the Smyrna community with many lifetime achievements including his family’s heritage dating back to the founding of Rutherford County in 1803. Ernie is also a founding member of the Rutherford County Historical Society and the former official county historian of Rutherford County, Tennessee.
“Ernie’s dedication to promoting and preserving the history and heritage of our community is truly amazing”, said Representative Sparks.
“Ernie Johns is a legend when it comes to our local history. I am honored to be a part of the ceremony naming this section of Smyrna’s West Jefferson Pike in honor of Ernie.” said Senator Ketron. Sen. Ketron also recalls the dedication and service of Ernie when Sen. Ketron and Ernie served on the Rutherford county Commission in the 1990’s.
The newly unveiled sign is located near the corner of Nissan Drive and West Jefferson Pike, in front of Gil’s Ace Hardware, 415 Nissan Drive, Smyrna, Tennessee.