Mary Jane Skinner: The Volunteer Heart Behind La Vergne’s Rescue Squad

By Mike Sparks

It was an honor to join historian and former Smyrna Rescue Squad member Marty Luffman in presenting a very special surprise at Mary Jane Skinner’s 90th birthday celebration. We were thrilled to present her with Tennessee Proclamation 130, which officially recognizes and honors the extraordinary contributions of the La Vergne Rescue Squad. Many thanks to Dana Blair for reaching out to my office.

The Proclamation 130 serves as a formal acknowledgment from the Tennessee state government of the rescue squad’s longstanding dedication to public safety and volunteerism.

(Old photo from a La Vergne Rescue Squad Breakfast with the late Admiral Jimmy Taylor, ?, former Senator Jim Tracy, David Lee, Sen. Dawn White, Dana Blair, Mary Skinner, Rep. Mike Sparks and ?)

This state proclamation amplifies the profile of the La Vergne Rescue Squad and validates decades of service from volunteers like the Skinners and Blairs. It also inspires continued community support and investment in the squad’s operations, particularly the popular Saturday breakfasts that fund vital equipment and training. The recognition strengthens the legacy of service and helps encourage new generations of volunteers.

Celebrating Local Heroes
With the passage of Proclamation 130, the Tennessee legislature has cemented the La Vergne Rescue Squad’s reputation as a model of civic duty, honoring the sacrifices and dedication of families like the Blairs and Skinners for future generations to appreciate.

Our state could certainly use a few more Mary Jane Skinners today. If we had more people with a heart to serve their fellow man—our world be a much better place.