J. Aaron Ellison took his oath of office for Chilton County Coroner on Jan. 11 at Mineral Springs Baptist Church.

The ceremony was opened by Chilton County Circuit Clerk Glenn McGriff, who commended Ellison for his work in the community and the care that he provides to Chilton County.

McGriff also spoke on the importance of prayer and encouraged those in attendance to lift Ellison and his family up in prayer during his term in office.

The Rev. Jason Green followed with a devotion and implored Ellison, along with everyone in attendance, to play a role in turning our nation back to God.

“The hope for America starts in our hometown leaders like Aaron,” Green said.

Judge Rhonda Hardesty (left) administers the oath of office to new Chilton County Coroner J. Aaron Ellison while his wife, Ashley M. Ellison, looks on.

Chilton County District Judge Rhonda Hardesty followed, and administered the oath of office to Ellison, along with stating how humbling it is to have the people elect you to a position.

Ellison used a King James Version Bible during the oath that belonged to his late great-grandmother, Pearlie Carden.

Ellison then addressed the crowd, thanking them for the trust they have placed in him and thanked God for giving him the opportunity to serve.

In quoting the poet Thomas Lynch, Ellison said, “It is my job to get the dead to where they are going, and get the living to where they need to be. It is my office’s job to handle death, but also provide comfort to the families we come in contact with.”

The Rev. Thurmond Cleckler closed the ceremony with prayer, asking God to provide Ellison with strength and guidance during his time in office.

A reception followed the ceremony.