Keith Gibson is a proud Hawkins County native, raised in Church Hill by his parents, Ben and Nora Dell Gibson, who moved from Hancock County in 1952. One of five siblings—including the late Judge Reece Gibson, Jean Hamilton, Kenneth Gibson, and Dr. Donna Gibson Hughes—Keith is married to Brenda Gibbons Gibson, a retired Kingsport City Schools teacher. They have three children (John, Sarah, and Katie ) and three grandchildren, Charlotte, Michael, and Jessee.

Education: Keith attended Church Hill Elementary and graduated from Church Hill High School in 1973, where he played football under legendary coach Jay W. Salley. This earned him a full scholarship to Virginia Tech, where he was a four-year letterman as an offensive lineman. He graduated with a B.S. in Industrial Arts (education focus), later earning a Master's from Union College and an administrative endorsement. A proud Hokie to this day.

Professional Career Keith returned home after college and devoted 32 years to education: teaching graphic arts and drafting at Church Hill High (1979-80), Volunteer High (1980-91), and Sullivan Central High (1991-93), then serving in administration at Sullivan Central from 1993 until retiring in 2011. He spent 12 years in Hawkins County schools and 20 in Sullivan County, impacting thousands of students.

Community Service

• Steward and Trustee at Liberty Hill Evangelical Methodist Church

• Charter member and past President of Church Hill Jaycees

• Former President of Church Hill Housing Development (Jaycee Apartments)

• Member of the Cherokee Rod and Gun Club, member of the National Rifle Association, and the Hawkins County Republican Party

Political Experience

Keith brings proven leadership:

• Church Hill Alderman (1994-2001 and 2018-present)

• Hawkins County Commissioner (2018-2022): Vice Chair of Budget Committee; Chair of Airport, Education, and Census Redistricting Committees; member of Roads, Buildings, and Delinquent Tax Committees
  

A devoted family man, patriot, and team player, Keith is running for Hawkins County Mayor to deliver strong, accountable leadership—rooted in his faith, service, and lifelong commitment to our community.