LAFOLLETTE, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF) – Dr. Gerald A. Troutman, longtime LaFollette dentist now retired, was recently honored by the State of Tennessee House of Representatives for his service in the community.  State Rep. Dennis Powers delivered a proclamation, signed by Tennessee’s Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton, and Powers.  Troutman was recognized for his longevity in public health service in providing dental care, and his other community support, at a meeting of the South Campbell County Rotary Club.

LaFollette Dentist Honored:  Dr. Gerald Troutman (left) and his wife Joanne (middle) listen as State Rep. Dennis Powers (right) recognizes Troutman for his over 60 years of dental care service to the community. 
Thanks to Area Dental Patients:  Dr. Gerald Troutman, being honored by the State of Tennessee House of Representatives, thanked his long-time loyal patients and staff, and recognized the many small businesses in the LaFollette / Campbell County area. 

During the ceremony, Powers noted that “Dr. Troutman exemplifies the spirit and allegiance to family and community that is characteristic of a true Tennessean.  He has demonstrated the utmost professionalism, ability, and integrity, winning the unbridled respect of his patients and LaFollette area citizens.”

Troutman, who was accompanied at the meeting by his wife Joanne, thanked Powers and others at the Rotary meeting.  “I especially want to thank the many kind patients and the incredible dental staff that I’ve have been able to work with over these past many years.  LaFollette and Campbell County have many great small businesses, and I’m proud to have worked with so many leaders from these hometown organizations.”

Troutman was recognized for his character as a role model, and inspiration to his six children, traits earned by growing up as part of the “greatest generation.”  Troutman dispensed these traits as an American born between the two World Wars who has certainly earned his character badge.  He found time to deliver dental care, and service, to his community, and lead his family on many memorable adventures.

LaFollette Dentist for 61 Years:  In 1960 (left), Dr. Gerald Troutman opened his dental office in downtown LaFollette.  Now, 61 years and thousands of happy patient smiles later, he has retired in the same building.

Troutman Career Highlights

A native of LaFollette and graduate of UT Dental College in Memphis, Troutman served in the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of Captain.  After his military service, Troutman returned to his hometown in 1960 to open his dentist office.  There he’s improved the smiles for thousands of patients from Campbell, Claiborne, Knox, Anderson, Scott Counties and surrounding areas, until his retirement in Oct. 2021.

Troutman mentored many dental care and office staff over the years, including then-associate dentist Dr. James C. “Jay” Ragain in 1984 to 1985.  A Jacksboro native, Ragain now serves as Dean of UT’s College of Dentistry in Memphis.  In a separate ceremony in Knoxville, Ragain declared Dec. 1 as “Doctor Gerald A. Troutman Day” for the UT Dental College.

Community Outreach

To demonstrate the importance of proper dental-hygiene to LaFollette area citizens, Troutman and his team performed local outreach — included visiting schools in Campbell County.

Powers said Troutman’s service to the community including as a volunteer officer for the Boy Scouts of America local council.  Powers, a Scout and long-time supporter of Scouting, added that “Dr. Troutman was a troop leader with various Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Explorer Scout groups over the years, helping young people to experience the outdoors and preparing them to be future good citizens.” (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/07/2021-6AM)