Demps speaks at Historical Society March 18

Posted on March 8, 2024

The Taylor County Historical Society will welcome County Commissioner Thomas Demps as guest speaker for its Monday, March 18, meeting, which will begin at 6:30 p.m.

The second of 12 sons born to the late John and Sarah Demps, he is a 1958 graduate of Jerkins High School and lifelong resident of Perry.

Because he was born into such a large family, a strong work ethic was instilled in Demps at an early age. He began working at the age of nine, and held various jobs until his employment with Buckeye Cellulose Corporation in 1974. He retired from that company in 1999.

In 1982 he was appointed to the Perry City Council; he was the first African- American to hold a public office in that city. He remained on the council for 14 years, being unopposed in any election cycle. During his tenure as a councilman, Demps also became the first African-American to serve as mayor.

He and his wife, Lueva, have four children and two grandchildren.

The Taylor County Historical Society Museum is located in downtown Perry, at the corner of Main and Washington streets.

The meeting is open to the public and everyone is welcome.