Troutman’s career reflected on

LAFOLLETTE, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF) – A native of LaFollette, Dr. Gerald Troutman opened his dental office downtown in 1961.  And for 60 years, through his retirement this month, he and his staff have enjoyed helping thousands of patients improve their smile. Troutman recently reflected on both. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with a fantastic team of dental assistants, hygienists, associate dentists, and office staff over the many years.  And we’ve come to know many wonderful patients and families,” he said.  Troutman’s patients came to his LaFollette office the local area but also from places such as Knoxville and Middlesboro, Ky to get their teeth cleaned or for other dental care.

Community Service

A graduate of UT’s College of Dentistry, Troutman’s service to his country began when he was a dentist in the U.S. Army for a couple of years, where he rose to the rank of Captain.  Later, his service to the community includes as a volunteer officer / on the board of directors for: The Boy Scouts of America local council; and the LaFollette United Methodist Church, among other civic groups.  

Most Recent staff

Troutman’s most recent dental care team included some long-term staffers: Chelsey (Finkenbine) Phillips, office assistant since 2017; Alisha Brady, dental hygienist since 2008; Kelsey Honaker, dental assistant since 2017, and Judy Wells, office staff since the late 1970s. “I have Iearned so much from my time with him, and I’m excited to be taking what I gained there as I continue in my role as a dental hygienist,” said Brady  Honaker, who is also finishing her education degree, said “Serving here as a dental assistant has given me great insight into working with children; it’s really helped me prepare for my future role as a teacher.”

“I’ve really enjoyed working with Dr. Troutman and all the staff here; We love providing a helpful atmosphere for our patients.”  Wells, who’s worked at the dental office for more than 40 years, noted: “It’s been a fantastic experience here, in working with Dr. Troutman and the staff over the years; I like that we’ve provided a positive place for our patients,” Phillips said.

Employees Over the Years

Troutman’s first employee in 1961 was Mrs. Jean Claiborne, who , as the only employee, served as a “do-it-all” at the office for over 10 years.  Since then, a number of employees have served Campbell County and area patients at Troutman’s office:

• Former Associate Dentists:  Dr. Frank Shaw (late 1970s – 1980s), Dr. Mark Russell (1980s), Dr. David Jones, and Dr. James C. Ragain (now Dean, UT College of Dentistry).  
• Former Dental Hygienists: Ellen Crowley (1980s); Debbie Tapp (late 1970s and 1980s); Margie Estes, and Jerrie Lynn Russell.
• Former Office Staff:  Francine Paul (most of the 1980s); Peggy Henegar (1980s); Phyllis Longmars; and Alice Housby (1990s – 2010s),     
• Former Dental Assistant: Jennifer Moyers.

Troutman, a graduate of UT’s College of Dentistry, recognized the value of his patients: “I am so thankful for my patients’ loyalty throughout the years, and I‘ll take the memories of all I have experienced with me into retirement.”   

(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 11/03/2021-6AM)