Hometown businesses magnify and foster a sense of community that impacts and contributes to our local identity. They are often deeply rooted and create a strong presence, being known for their personalized, strong relationships and contributions. For Billy Shrum, a second-generation roofer and Gallatin resident, he knew this was something he wanted to continue.
Growing up, Billy’s father worked on roofs during the day and worked second shift at Oscar Mayer at night while his mother worked hard in a factory. At the young age of ten, Billy himself began working with his dad part time on roofing jobs and as he grew older he continued roofing on the side while working a separate full-time job. Through the seasons of life, Billy met his love and soulmate, Jessica. They dated for six years before marrying in 1997 and in that same year, with the help of Jessica, Billy took over the roofing business from his father.
Billy and Jessica knew how important it was to provide a hometown feel through a local business and they wanted to fully root Shrum’s Roofing Company in Gallatin. By investing in the community and sponsoring various organizations such as Gallatin Little League, Shafer Middle School Girls Basketball, Gallatin High School Football, Sumner County Historical Society, Sumner County Emergency Services and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, they were able to ensure that they not only provided services to customers but to those in our area who needed a helping hand.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation holds a special place in the hearts of the Shrum family. Billy and Jessica’s daughter, Gaby, was born with Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disorder that causes severe respiratory and digestive issues. The Shrum family remains deeply dedicated to advocating and raising funds for the research of CF and over the years, Billy and Jessica have hosted numerous events and fundraisers. A yearly fishing tournament held in May, which is also Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, brings in around 150 boats and a lifetime of memories for the Shrum family, who so enjoy being on the water themselves. Seeing the good that comes from the annual fishing tournament and fundraiser is always a bonus for them!
The many organizations that Billy and Jessica are engaged in intertwine with the personal lives of Gaby and her twin brother, Gage, who are actively involved in local sports. When Billy isn’t working hard to keep his customers safe and dry, he’s on the ball field coaching the American Legion Post 17-15 U baseball team. The love of the game has now also led Billy and Jessica to their second business here in Gallatin: On Deck. The indoor state-of-the-art baseball training facility offers a first-class learning environment and expert coaching to help baseball and softball players of all skill levels maximize their potential year-round. Branding as Gallatin’s premier hitting and training facility, On Deck also has a pro shop, camps, clinic, batting cages, individual lessons and group party facilities.
Billy has been blessed to be surrounded by supportive teams that allow him to step back from time to time and focus on the importance of family, which keeps him grounded in life and business. This has also been the driving force behind diligently expanding Shrum's Roofing here in Gallatin and a successful opening of a second location in Knoxville. With faith and momentum on their side, they are now setting their sights on a third Shrum's Roofing location in Chattanooga.
Hard work lays the foundation and success is the fuel for the greater good, both professionally and personally. Billy and Jessica are the definitions of hard work and as ambassadors for expanding their reach and influences locally and across our great state of Tennessee.