By Amanda Smiles/West Tennessee Healthcare-Henry County
Paris, Tenn.–After more than a decade of dedicated service, Pastor Craig Peevyhouse is retiring from his role as Disaster Coordinator at West Tennessee Healthcare – Henry County. As this chapter comes to a close, the community reflects on the quiet strength and unwavering compassion that have defined his career. A man of deep faith and purpose, Pastor Craig truly embodies the spirit of West Tennessee Healthcare Henry County Hospital’ “Be the Good” campaign.
“I’ve always felt called to serve people at their worst moments,” he says. “And this role gave me that opportunity.”
Humble Roots and a Calling to Serve
Pastor Craig’s story begins in the small Mount Olive community between Dyer and Yorkville, Tennessee.
“I grew up very poor,” he recalls. “We didn’t even have indoor plumbing until after I got married.”
A serious childhood illness, rheumatic fever, left him bedridden for months, but that time wasn’t wasted. A homebound teacher introduced him to a lifelong love of reading, planting the seeds for a future in ministry.
He and his wife, Deloris, share one son, Jameson, who has followed a similar path of service. Jameson began his career as a 911 dispatcher before eventually becoming the Director of 911 Services for Weakley County and later serving as the 911 Educator for the state of Tennessee.
A Unique Ministry in Crisis
Pastor Craig’s journey into emergency response began long before his formal role as Disaster Coordinator.
“I’ve worked in EMS and served on rescue squads for many years,” he shares. “I have my EMT license and have worked as a critical care paramedic. Honestly, I’ve done more ministry in the back of an ambulance than I ever have from the pulpit.”
When Pastor Craig started his career at the hospital, he served as the Director of the Emergency Room. The role of Disaster Coordinator was an additional part of his duties. Even though he has long since left the Director position, he has held the role of Disaster Coordinator for 12 years. This role is one that’s brought both challenges and rewards.
Coordinating Calm Amid Chaos
As Disaster Coordinator, Pastor Craig oversaw emergency preparedness for the hospital. That included updating disaster policies, ensuring compliance with Medicare and Joint Commission regulations, and conducting biannual disaster drills.
“Bringing everyone to the table is often the most diVicult part,” he admits. “We coordinate with EMS, Watch 7, state and local health departments, school systems, and more. It takes time, eVort, and trust.”
Watch 7, he explains, is a coalition of hospitals and nursing homes across West Tennessee. “They’re our go-to when we need things like mobile hospitals, generators, or medical supplies.”
Rising to Meet a Changing World
In recent years, Pastor Craig has seen the nature of disaster preparedness shift significantly, “With the rise of active shooter events and even increased earthquake activity in our region, we’ve had to narrow our focus and adjust our training. Schools and churches have become key areas of emphasis.” His team has responded accordingly, developing more detailed, targeted drills to better protect the most vulnerable in the community.
One such eVort stands out: a large-scale school bus disaster drill involving over 150 participants, including EMS, fire departments, rescue squads, and state troopers.
“It was challenging, but incredibly rewarding,” he says. “We were able to conduct a full after-action review to identify areas of improvement. That collaboration is vital in real-life situations.”
Service That Transcends Titles
Pastor Craig has also served as the hospital’s chaplain, often being called in during the most diVicult moments. Whether visiting a patient in need of prayer or comforting grieving families, he brings a steady, compassionate presence.
“If there’s a fatality, I’ll come in to oVer support,” he explains. “I pray with the family if they’d like, and I walk with them to see their loved one. It’s not about what I say, it’s about just being there.”
The Importance of Preparedness in Rural Healthcare
In a small hospital setting, preparedness can make all the diVerence. “Tornadoes are common here, and we can’t aVord to be caught oV guard,” he says. “We may be a rural
facility, but we have the same responsibility to our patients as any large hospital. Our priority is always to protect the health and safety of our staV, patients, and the community.”
That preparation also ensures compliance with vital healthcare regulations and helps keep services running when people need them most.
A Lasting Legacy
As he steps away from the role, Pastor Craig is grateful for the opportunity to have served. “This role has allowed me to be more active in the community and to mirror the same leadership and care in my church,” he reflects. “It’s been more than a job; it’s been a calling.”
His message to the community is simple but powerful: “Trust your healthcare team. During a disaster, show patience and understanding. Know that we’re doing everything possible to keep you safe.”
The team at West Tennessee Healthcare Henry County Hospital is indebted to Pastor Peevyhouse for his years of service and unwavering dedication to protecting the citizens of Henry County and beyond. He has carved a path for others to follow, as the job of keeping our community safe never stops. We are thankful that Pastor Craig will still walk the hallways of the hospital bringing a message of hope and calm to all those who are in need.