WHNT News 19 today announced the retirement of news anchor Jerry Hayes. March 26, 2024, is his last day and it is also his 45th Anniversary at News 19.

“It’s time for me to slow down, spend more time with my family, especially my grandkids and just enjoy life,” Jerry said about his retirement.

Jerry started at WHNT as reporter in 1979, but within weeks he was promoted to weekend producer and anchor. For more than 30 years he said, “thanks for watching” and “goodnight” to viewers anchoring the weekday 6 & 10PM newscast. In 2016, he moved to early evening newscasts for a better quality of life.

“Jerry’s tenure behind an anchor desk in Huntsville news will probably never be duplicated again. His role as a trusted voice in our community leaves an indelible mark and his legacy will continue to inspire and resonate with our trusted viewers for years to come.” Commented WHNT -TV/WHDF -TV Vice President, General Manager Stan Pylant. “His dedication to journalism, his commitment to delivering the news nightly with integrity and his decades of service puts him in a league of his own. I wish Jerry nothing but the absolute best as he moves into a new phase of life spending more time with his kids, grandkids and just enjoying life. He has so earned this.”

A born journalist, Jerry can strike up a conversation with anyone. His journalistic integrity and ability to tell an incredible story have taken him to Russia, Washington D.C. and Hollywood, Calif. His favorite place, besides the beach, is the News 19 desk where he’s been for 45 years.

Jerry’s dedication and talent have been recognized with two Midsouth Regional Emmy awards and an induction into the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Silver Circle. He is also a six-time recipient of the Alabama Associated Press Television Award for Best News Anchor, a three-time Alabama Broadcasting Association Anchor of the Year, and an Edward R. Murrow Region 12 award winner for Best Sports Reporting.

Jerry is known for his servant’s heart rolling up his sleeves to support the local Muscular Dystrophy Association Labor Day Telethon for 25 years, the Melissa George Neonatal Memorial Fund and American Cancer Association. He even shaved his moustache live on TV to raise money for Tools for Teachers, a school supply drive. As a newsroom leader, he mentors new reporters and producers to help them achieve the next steps in their career.