In recognition of their decades of service, leadership, and unshakable dedication to their community, Dr. Edwin (Ed) and Nancy Hendricks, who have been cherished residents of Demorest for more than 40 years, have been selected grand marshals of this year’s Glorious Fourth procession.
The Hendricks, who have been married for almost 57 years, established a life based on public service, family, and faith while raising their three sons in Demorest. For over thirty years, they had a family medicine business together, with Nancy running the clinic and Dr. Hendricks treating patients before retiring in 2019 from Medlink Habersham.
But their influence extends well beyond the examination room. The Hendricks have been actively involved at First Presbyterian Church of Cornelia for almost 40 years; Ed is currently a deacon and Nancy is a ruling elder. Nancy has often filled in as organist and pianist, and they have led youth groups, taught Sunday School, sang in choruses, and assisted with worship. For almost a decade, Ed also participated in medical mission missions to Laos.
Legacy of service
The pair founded Demorest Family Medicine on Demorest-Mt. Airy Highway in 1993 after opening their first clinic in Habersham County in 1983. Dr. Hendricks moved to Medlink when the practice closed in 2014. In addition, he was the medical director of The Oaks at Scenic View nursing home from 1999 to 2014 and worked for Habersham Medical Center for more than 30 years, including as Chief of Staff.
From 2006 to 2017, Dr. Hendricks was a member of the Georgia Army National Guard, which deployed to Afghanistan in 2009 and Kuwait in 2012. With the help of coworkers and employees, Nancy managed the clinic while Harry was away. He is currently the Northeast Regional Vice President of the Georgia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution and is still involved in the American Legion, VFW, and Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
Nancy’s civic engagement has also made a lasting impression. Shortly after the family relocated to Demorest, she assisted in forming Cub Scout Pack 660 and served as the previous president of the Demorest Woman’s Club. For almost ten years, she and Ed were both Scout Committee members and leaders. She was also a member of the advisory board for the Medical Assisting Program at North Georgia Technical College and the board of Habersham Christian Learning Center.
The couple has a shared passion for music in addition to their careers and service. Nancy has recently joined Ed, who has been a member of the Piedmont Chorale for over 20 years.
Ed and Nancy Hendricks have dedicated their lives to giving back, from careers in medical and the military to mentorship, music, and ministry. In addition to being honored guests, they are also beloved neighbors whose legacy continues to warm Demorest’s heart as they lead this year’s Glorious Fourth parade.
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