Calhoun County, AL – Calhoun County is mourning the loss of former Commissioner J.D. Hess, who passed away on September 30th shortly after 6:00 p.m. Hess, who served on the Calhoun County Commission for 28 years, leaves behind a legacy of leadership, vision, and service that touched every corner of the community.
Throughout his nearly three decades of service, Hess was deeply involved in projects that shaped Calhoun County’s future. From the creation of community centers in Saks, Alexandria, Webster Chapel, and Weaver, to the agriculture center, the reopening of Woodland Park, and the establishment of the McClellan Horse Trails, Hess consistently sought to improve the lives of county residents. He often said that while the large projects mattered, the “small things” — helping youth teams with equipment or transportation, supporting 4-H and FFA, and encouraging local sports programs — were just as important.
U.S. Congressman Mike Rogers, who was both a colleague and a friend, offered a heartfelt tribute to the Calhoun Journal following the news:
“I was sad to hear of the passing of J.D. Hess. He was a true leader in our community and a dear friend to many. From the very beginning of his long tenure, he set out to make Calhoun County a better place. I, among many others, would argue he was overwhelmingly successful. Please join me in lifting his family up in prayer at this time.”
In 2022, Rogers also entered Hess’ 28 years of service into the Congressional Record, noting that such a long commitment to public service spoke to his love for Calhoun County and its people.
Calhoun County Commission Chairman Terry Howell, who ordered all county flags lowered to half-staff in Hess’ honor, said:
“I was informed yesterday at 6:20 p.m. of the passing of Commissioner Hess. He served Calhoun County well in his twenty-eight years. He will be missed by many. I personally made the decision last evening at 8:30 p.m. to lower all Calhoun County flags to half-staff. These flags will fly half-staff until sunset on the day of his funeral. Prayers for his entire family, Calhoun County.”
State Senator Keith Kelley also reflected on Hess’ long record of service:
“J.D. had a long history of service to the citizens of Calhoun County. The impact of his service will be felt for many years.”
For many, Hess’ passing was deeply personal. Former County Attorney Gloria Floyed shared:
“I’ve lost not only a dear friend, but also my favorite and best buddy. His leadership as commissioner and his friendship meant the world to me. He will be deeply missed, but his impact and memory will live on in all of us who were blessed to know and love him.”
Commissioner Lee Patterson described Hess as both mentor and friend:
“J.D. was like a father figure to me and a good friend. He mentored me and showed great leadership when I came onto the commission, teaching me the ropes. He had a vision with the agriculture center, which continues to benefit our youth, and he had a deep love for livestock, farming, and the young people of this county. He also had the vision for the horse trails, and together we were able to make that happen. Just recently, we acquired another seven hundred acres to expand the trails—something that will stand as part of his legacy. J.D. had a few sayings that stuck with me, like reminding me to only speak when necessary. I really enjoyed his company over the years. We agreed on most things, but even when we didn’t, we respected each other and always agreed to disagree.”
Commissioner Danny Shears, who served with Hess for one year, recalled the lessons he learned during that time:
“I was fortunate enough to serve with Commissioner Hess for one year. While I was trying to learn everything I could about public service, he was very nice and patient with me and taught me a lot about the ins and outs of county government. He had a vast knowledge of our county and its people, and I think at the heart of most everything he did, it was what was best for the citizens of our county.”
Hess’ contributions were widely recognized during his career. In 2022, the Calhoun County Commission proclaimed October 27th as “J.D. Hess Day” in honor of his decades of dedication. He was also praised for his resourcefulness, frugality, and ability to “stretch a penny,” often salvaging materials to save county funds while still finding ways to bring tourism, recreation, and growth into the community.
As Calhoun County lowers its flags in his memory, residents remember J.D. Hess not only as the county’s longest-serving commissioner, but as a man whose service, mentorship, and vision will continue to inspire future generations.
Services will be at Pete Matthews Collusium at JSU on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Visitation will be at 2:00 pm, and will be followed by a celebration of life at 3:00 pm.
Full Obitiuary from Anniston Memorial Funeral Home
John Durden “J.D.” Hess Obituary
Celebration of life service for John Durden “J.D.” Hess will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the Pete Mathews Coliseum in Jacksonville with Dr. Randy Postell officiating and Jana McGinnis, Gloria Floyd, and Jody Whaley delivering personal remarks. His family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service at the Coliseum. Burial will follow the service in Anniston Memorial Gardens.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Manley and Oris Hess; great granddaughter, Elise Jones; siblings, Manley Hess, Charles Hess, and Mary Ann Haynie.
Left to cherish the memory of J.D. are his wife of 47 years, Debbie Sprayberry Hess; daughters, Jessica Cobb (Derek) and Stacie Ross (Jim); grandchildren, Caroline Cobb, Jay Michael Cobb, Kyle Daugherty (Kim) and Katelyn Chandler (Allen); great grandchildren, Kennedy Carlisle and Emersyn Jones; siblings, Doris Prickett (Joel), Ada Nolan, and Mary Hess.
J.D. was a lifelong resident of Calhoun County. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Saks and served his church faithfully. His service to the community began as a young boy delivering groceries for Hess Grocery. He attended Saks High School and graduated in 1965. After high school, he worked at Smith Sporting Goods. Later he served in the United States Army Reserves. He was a fireman with the Anniston Fire Department and served for 20 years until his retirement in 1989. After retiring from AFD, he was the owner and operator of Hess Siding. He was the longest serving Calhoun County Commissioner of 28 years, serving in this capacity from 1990-1998, and 2002 – 2022. He was a past President of the JSU Gamecock Club and a past President of the Saks Civitan Club. He was a charter member of Calhoun County Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors. He enjoyed helping the community with projects to include community centers and parks, Calhoun County Ag Center, youth and school activities, and Camp McClellan Horse Trails. He spent his life serving his community and more importantly his family. He was a friend to everyone.
Those serving as pallbearers will be Tobi Burt, John Cassell, Manley Haynie, Brian Hess, Phillip Nolan, Jerry Roach, Danny Stokes, and Gray Warren. Honorary pallbearers will be Jax State Softball Alumni.
Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to the JSU Foundation (700 Pelham Road North, Jacksonville, AL 36265), with check memos to be listed as “J.D. Hess Memorial Scholarship Fund” or to the Back Country Horsemen of America (127 Mud Hole Road, Anniston, AL 36205) with checks payable to BCHA McClellan.
