MAYOR & COUNCIL

Town of Killen Mayor & Council

All Departments

MAYOR OF KILLEN - LONNIE RAY

Lonnie Ray is the current mayor of Killen. He officially took office on November 3, 2025, and is the town’s 21 mayor. Lonnie is a lifelong resident of Killen and has the distinction of two “Firsts” in the town of Killen. He was a member of the very first volunteer fire department in Killen, joining when he was about 12 years old, and was driving the town’s only fire truck when he was only 15, and is the only surviving member of the first department. He also scored the first official touchdown on what is now E.D. Redding field, at Brooks High School.

Mayor Ray graduated from Brooks High School and the University of North Alabama. He is married with two grown children and two grandchildren.

Being fiscally responsible for the town’s finances is a top priority, spending wisely and carefully, and pledges no unnecessary or overspending of the taxpayer’s money and operating the town as much as possible as a successful business might operate.

A goal of the mayor is the pursuit, as much as practical, the annexation of adjoining property into the city limits. “So many people think they are in the city limits, when in fact, many are not, much to their disappointment”. Hopefully, those who wish they were will join in the effort to become voting members of the town. Another goal is business growth within our town limits, especially along Highway 72. This has been a long-time goal for the town as well.

TOWN OF KILLEN COUNCIL

The council members are: Chris Demorse, Monica Williams, Lee Peden, Connie Parrish, and Mary Messer.

The mayor and council are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the town. The mayor is the chief executive officer of the town and is responsible for carrying out the laws and ordinances of the town.

The council is a legislative body that makes decisions on matters affecting the town. The mayor and council meet bi-weekly, in public, to discuss issues affecting the town. They are committed to making Killen a great place to live, work, and raise a family, striving to attract new businesses and create a safe, positive environment for all residents of the town.

Chris DeMorse

Town Council Place #1

Dr. Chris DeMorse has served the Shoals area for more than 25 years as a paramedic, including with Killen Fire Rescue and Killen–Center Star Rescue Unit. He currently serves as Program Director and Instructor for the Emergency Medical Services program at Northwest Shoals Community College. In this role, he has worked to strengthen emergency services in the region and advocate for improvements at the state level. He believes in hard work and that success must be earned. Through his education and professional experience, Chris has developed a strong understanding of public policy and administration. His years in emergency services and community involvement have given him a deep appreciation for the town’s unique character and the diverse needs of its residents. Chris values collaboration and representation and is committed to working effectively with citizens, fellow council members, town staff, and community stakeholders. His leadership style is rooted in listening, learning, and acting decisively in the best interest of the town and its citizens. He is committed to expanding businesses and services that improve the quality of life for all residents. As a dedicated member of the community, Chris is eager to contribute his skills, experience, and passion to address the challenges and opportunities facing the town. Dr. DeMorse has been a resident of Killen for 23 years. He is married to his wife of 23 years and they have two daughters. His educational background includes a paramedic certificate and an associate degree from Northwest Shoals Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Athens State University, a master’s degree from University of Alabama, and a doctorate from AT Still University.

Monica Williams

Town Council Place #2

I'm Monica Williams and I am proud to have the opportunity to serve the Town of Killen. As a dedicated community advocate and mother of two, I am committed to promoting public safety, responsible growth, and a strong quality of life for local families. I'm honored to represent the citizens of Killen and serve with integrity, transparency, and a heart for our community.

Connie Parrish

Town Council Place #3

Connie Parrish is married over 50 years with 2 children and 2 grandchildren. Council 17 years, Planning Commissioner 27 years, 10 years on Farmers Market Board. (Retired) Florence High School CNP and Gate Coordinator. Four Generations in the Brooks School System.

Lee Peden

Town Council Place #4

Lee Peden has a deep love for the town of Killen, its people, and everything the community represents. With over 20 years of public service experience, Lee currently serves as Parks Superintendent with the City of Florence Parks & Recreation Department. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Alabama and is a 2025 Leadership Shoals graduate and 2022 Alabama Recreation & Parks Association LEAD Program graduate. An active member of First Baptist Killen, Lee and his wife, Tia, are the proud parents of two children, Ty and Lia.

Mary Messer

Town Council Place #5

First year serving on Killen Town Council, retired from Bank Independent after 37 years, 25 of those at the Killen office. Mary and her husband Kevin have lived in Killen for over 20 years. She previously served on the board of adjustments for the town and enjoys being a part of the community. She has a desire to see Killen grow and still maintain the hometown atmosphere.