Volunteer Of The Year: Dr. Jay Colbrook

The Nashville Chamber of Commerce selected longtime veterinarian and philanthropist Dr. Jay Colbrook as its 2019 Volunteer Of The Year.

“It was an unexpected honor,” Colbrook said about the distinction.

Colbrook will be honored at the annual Volunteer Of The Year banquet, roast and auction on Monday, March 25, at the American Legion in Nashville. The event includes a cash bar beginning at 6 p.m., and a dinner set at 7 p.m. Tickets for the banquet are on sale now, and those interested in purchasing admission should contact the Nashville Chamber of Commerce.

Colbrook said he came to Nashville in January 1977. He was part of a two-doctor practice at the Nashville Animal Clinic, where he worked “13 straight days with every other Sunday off.”

Colbrook said he became involved with the Nashville Lions Club, and he said he believes that the club has not only allowed him to meet several friends but they have also done a lot of good for the community.

Colbrook has also been involved in the State Theatre corporation for a number of years. He said he believes the theater is an important part of the community.

“Our identity is in being a good-sized town,” he said. “It is a good place for kids to go and meet up, and it is a good place for seniors who don’t want to go too far out of town.”

Colbrook’s other involvements include the Nashville Savings Bank board of directors, the city planning commission and participating in various fundraisers for St. Ann’s Catholic Church. He is also the administrator for the Washington County Animal Control.

Colbrook said he is honored to have been chosen for the award.

“I could probably think of 20 more people who are more deserving,” he said.

Colbrook has been married to Cheryl for nearly 40 years.

“The person who should have gotten the award is her,” he said. “A lot of the times, I have work, I have conflicts, and she would fill in for me and make the calls. She is probably more deserving than I am.”

They have three children: Renee Dietz, Stefanie Easley and Thomas Colbrook. They have six grandchildren: Elsie, Will, Abby and Daniel and Leo and Radcliff.

Colbrook said he believes  if everyone gave back to their community, “we would all be better off.”

“It is just something you have to do,” he said. “You do it to make the world a better place. If we all do a little something, then things can run pretty smooth.”