Harrison points to experience in campaign

From The Iron Kettle to Farm Bureau, candidate says serving the public has prepared her for County Clerk’s office

9:12 a.m. July 15, 2026

DUANE CROSS
MCO Publisher•Editor

Kelly Harrison’s first lessons in customer service came behind the counter of a familiar Lynchburg business.

Her parents, Johnny and Darlene Woods, owned and operated The Iron Kettle on the Square. Harrison said the experience taught her how to work with the public, listen to customers, and serve people from across the community.

“It’s where I first learned the value of working with the public and serving others,” Harrison said.

She now hopes to carry those lessons into the Moore County Courthouse.

Harrison is running for Moore County clerk in the Aug. 6 General Election. She points to her business education, office experience, and years of working with the public as qualifications for the position.

Over the past several months, Harrison has traveled throughout the county, knocking on doors and personally asking residents for their support.

“I would like to thank each of you for welcoming me into your home and for the encouragement along the way,” Harrison said.

She said those conversations have given her an opportunity to meet more residents and explain why she wants the job.

Experience working with the public

Harrison attended the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) in 2001 and earned a certificate in Business Systems Technology.

She is also a notary public and works as a health plan representative at Farm Bureau in Lynchburg. Harrison serves as secretary of the Moore County Farm Bureau Board.

She said those roles have required organization, attention to detail, and regular interaction with the public – skills she believes would help her operate the county clerk’s office effectively and efficiently.

Harrison said she has enjoyed her work with Farm Bureau but would welcome the opportunity to serve Moore County residents from the courthouse.

“If elected, I will serve every resident with kindness and respect,” Harrison said.

She said her goal would be to maintain an office that is welcoming, dependable, and responsive to the people who rely on it.

Family and community ties

Harrison and her husband, Jared, have been married for 25 years. They have three children, Erica, Courtney, and Madison, and two grandchildren, Olivia Jo and Emmitt.

Her campaign has centered on personal contact with voters and her long-standing connections to Moore County.

Harrison said the experience has allowed her to reconnect with longtime friends and meet residents she had not known before entering the race.

Election information

Early voting runs from Friday, July 17, through Saturday, Aug. 1. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Monday, July 27. The Moore County General Election is Thursday, Aug. 6.