Family Medical Center physician Dr. Steven Cooper is heading to Chattanooga after accepting a position as medical director for Erlanger Medical Center.

The trusted local physician has been a staple here for two decades and admits he will miss serving the people of DeKalb County.

“I wanted to thank the citizens of DeKalb County for the last nineteen years of entrusting me with the honor of serving as one of your physicians,” Dr. Cooper said. “I have truly enjoyed my tenure in Smithville and will miss each of my patients dearly.”

Dr. Cooper will be leaving at the end of the month to begin his new career at Erlanger.

“I am leaving my practice at the Family Medical Center at the end of June to begin a new chapter in my life,” he revealed. “I am accepting a position as a medical director at Erlanger in Chattanooga. Please know that you are welcome to stay within our practice, if you so desire.”

Dr. Cooper suggested several who could step up and provide care for those who have seen him while he was here.

“You may choose another physician (Hugh Cripps, MD; Doug Hooper, MD; Jack Rhody, MD; Will Sherwood, MD; or Kevin Rhody, MD) or nurse practitioner (Natalie Gilley, APN; Andria Keith, APN; or Brenda Tramel, APN). Thank you again for your patronage, and I wish each of you the very best!”