Immediate Past President,

Bea Jea Merriman

Bea Jai grew up in the small river town of Southside, Alabama. Never in her wildest dreams has she imagined moving to Hokes Bluff, buying land and definitely not owning cattle. When Gary, Bea Jai’s husband, was working in Texas he got the idea to bring home a Texas Longhorn with a calf on its side, this would be the start of Pine Valley Farm. What started with 20 acres and 2 cows has now grown to 400 acres and 100 momma cows. While Bea Jai does not work outside of the home anymore, her days are filled with taking care of her 2 year old grandson Weston, while still raising her two other children Emma Kate who is 17 and Jeb who is 12. Hannah, the oldest daughter who is 26 will be fast to tell you Weston is Nene and Pawpaw’s baby. A strong love for the cattle led to an even stronger passion for the industry. She has served on several boards for the Alabama CattleWomen as well as The American National CattleWomen. She is Treasurer of the Etowah County Cattlemen’s Association, as well as over her county cattlewomen’s group. Bea Jai was also a part of the inaugural YCLP. She spends her time Volunteering at the local soup kitchen and taking yoga classes and is starting her yoga instructions training.