Henry County Government honored Joeann Compton for the occasion of her retirement with a proclamation this morning. Compton retired this year from the Henry County Parks and Recreation Department Tennis Center after 35 years of service as a tennis instructor, coach, and mentor to countless children and adults.

Compton played a major role in growing the sport of tennis in Henry County as a member of the Henry County Tennis Association, which resulted in the first six courts being constructed at Richard Craig Tennis Park in McDonough.

Affectionately known as “Momma Jo” by tennis players throughout Henry county, she served faithfully despite hardships, obstacles, and personal health battles. She dedicated her time with Henry County to promoting tennis programs in the community. She opened doors for people of all ages, backgrounds, genders, and ethnicities by founding the Jac Roth Free Tennis Clinic in 2002 to honor Jac Roth, founder of free tennis clinic and an avid tennis player.

Although retired, she expects to continue her work with the annual Jac Roth Free Tennis Clinic event.

For more information on Henry County Parks and Recreation, visit co.henry.ga.us or call 770-288-7300.