For the first time since 1977 — except for the three-year period between 1998 and 2001, and the seven months between May and November 2024 — someone not named Hudson has been sworn-in as Grayson County Coroner.
Kevin Pharis, who was selected by the Republican Party of Grayson County as its nominee to run for coroner after the retirement of Joe Brad Hudson in May 2024, was sworn-in by Judge-Executive Kevin Henderson last week.
Pharis, who ran unopposed in the special election held in coordination with Tuesday’s General Election, received 10,058 votes. He will now serve the remaining two years of Hudson’s term.
Pharis’ considerable experience includes serving as deputy coroner under Ronald Hudson from 1985 until 1998. Pharis again served as deputy coroner from 2018 until May 2024 under Joe Brad Hudson. Since May, Pharis has been deputy coroner under Larry Holeman, who was selected as interim coroner when Joe Brad Hudson retired.
“I’m fortunate to have served as a deputy under three highly experienced and outstanding coroners,” Pharis said.
Holeman, a Master Coroner since 2021, will continue his service as deputy coroner under Pharis. Additionally, current Deputy Coroner James Embry will also remain with the coroner’s office.
Pharis said on Sunday that he has selected Steve Stapleton as Grayson County’s third deputy coroner.
In addition to his lengthy history with the Grayson Co. Coroner’s Office, Pharis has served on the Leitchfield Fire Department for over 40 years.
(Photo: Kevin Pharis (r) being sworn-in by Judge-Executive Kevin Henderson, courtesy of Kevin Pharis’ Facebook page)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
