Judy Nesmith Receives 2026 Martin Coffey Cardiovascular Service Award

Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC) is proud to announce that Judy Nesmith, cardiac catheterization (cath) lab technician has been named the recipient of the 2026 Martin Coffey Cardiovascular Service Award. This award honors individuals who exemplify excellence in cardiovascular care, unwavering integrity, and a dedication to patient well-being.

“We are honored to recognize our award winner tonight at the only remaining active cath lab team member trained directly by Martin Coffey, for whom the award is named,” said Buffy Key, CEO at CRMC.  “Her connection to Coffey dates back to the early 1990s, when he first recognized her attention to detail and potential while she worked in purchasing during the development of CRMC’s original cardiac catheterization lab. In 1995, Coffey personally recruited Nesmith to join the cath lab team. With more than three decades of exceptional dedication, skill, and service, we congratulate Judy.”

From the beginning of her clinical career, Nesmith distinguished herself through determination, precision, and a relentless commitment to excellence. Despite entering patient care for the first time, she quickly surpassed expectations and earned the trust of cardiologists and surgeons alike. Over the years, she became the preferred scrub technician for complex procedures, including pacemaker cases, and was frequently called upon to assist during emergencies, even while on vacation.

More than 30 years later, Nesmith remains a trusted and vital member of the cath lab team. She continues to take call, is often the first to arrive for emergency cases, and is relied upon for the most challenging procedures. Her longevity and continued excellence in a physically demanding specialty are a testament to her work ethic and professionalism.

Beyond her technical expertise, Nesmith is widely respected as a mentor and leader. She has guided generations of cath lab staff, leading by example through her consistency, preparedness, and quiet leadership. She also serves as a cornerstone of cath lab operations, ensuring the team has the supplies and support needed to deliver high-quality cardiovascular care.

One of the nominations said: Judy exemplifies the commitment, values, and legacy of Martin Coffey. Her impact on patient care, her colleagues, and cardiovascular services at Cookeville Regional has been profound and enduring.

About the Martin Coffey Award:

The Martin Coffey Cardiovascular Service Award is given to an individual who has made a positive impact and best exemplifies the same dedication and loyalty in broadening the scope and delivery of quality cardiovascular care to the patients of CRMC and the Upper Cumberland region as Coffey did during his tenure as the founding director of the Heart and Vascular Center of Cookeville Regional Medical Center (1994-2007).  Coffey was instrumental in the development of creating what is known today as the Heart and Vascular Center at Cookeville Regional.