A Calling To Business: Former Local Military Recruiter and County Teacher Launch Agency - Putnam County’s Newest Company First for W.V.

A Putnam County couple who found each other in West Virginia’s banking industry is launching a new relationship in 2023. The Scott Depot residents will put their Mountain State heritage to work in Hurricane next week when they open Brightway, The Mays Agency insurance office.

Known for their work in the banking and education fields, John and Sherri Mays will open the doors on their new Teays Valley Road venture next Monday. Married for 15 years, the couple who met while working at the same bank branch will now be protecting the people of Putnam County and throughout the region. The Mays Agency is the first Brightway Insurance franchise to open in West Virginia.

A U.S. Air Force veteran who served for many of his years in uniform as a high school military recruiter in Logan and Beckley, John has also worked as an area director for missionaries on college campuses across the state. “Serving in the military, selling that experience to our next generation and sharing the things that are most important with them has really shaped my life,” John said. “Now being able to help them protect what means the most to them seems like a natural fit.”

Although there is no Hatfield and McCoy story to tell in this merger, this couple born and raised in the Appalachians has fought hard to make this American Dream come true.

The daughter of a West Virginia coal miner, Sherri knew her deep roots would drive her to a career that would help her help others that call West Virginia home. “After teaching Pre-K in Kanawha County for the past eight years, my job was cut and I needed to look for an opportunity,” Sherri added.

“Working in the banking industry for a decade, then teaching after that, it feels as if being able to show and teach others how to protect their interests is a true calling for me.”

Additionally, with a mother who retired from the banking industry herself, combined with 20 years of sales experience of his own, John felt like a business of their own was the path his family was being recruited for. “This is home. And putting our backgrounds to work right here, right now, just adds up.”

Both John and Sherri hold master's and bachelor’s degrees from Liberty University (VA), respectively. Sherri graduated with cum laude distinction from the education program at Liberty. John also holds a master's degree from Biola University, as well. Residing in Scott Depot, the couple have four children and three grandchildren.

Brightway, The Mays Agency offers customized Home, Flood, Auto, Boat, Condo, Renters, Personal Articles, RV, Motorcycle, Umbrella, Commercial and Life insurance policies from numerous insurance companies. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (EDT) and Saturday/Sunday by appointment. Visit them at their office at 3860 Teays Valley Road, Suite 1, in Hurricane, online at BrightwayMays.com or call 304-814-2509.

Brightway’s corporate office staff provides expertise and support in areas including customer service, technology, accounting, marketing, distribution and business analytics. In addition, Brightway handles carrier relations and appointments, as well as support with personnel hiring, licensing, onboarding, training and retention. The company’s signature after-the-sale service empowers Agency Owners, like John and Sherri, to focus on new business sales and provide customers the personalized service they deserve.

About Brightway Insurance

Established in 2008, Brightway grew to become one of the largest privately-owned property/casualty insurance distribution companies in the U.S. with more than 300 franchises in 38 states and more than $1 billion in annual premiums. Recently, Brightway’s success led to a private equity investment that has infused the company with financial and human capital, and data and analytics access, to accelerate growth and deliver new and exciting market opportunities.

Brightway produces winning outcomes for franchisees and their customers by offering access to customized coverage solutions from a range of insurers paired with full back office and marketing support. This winning model allows agents and producers to focus on addressing the needs of their customers to become trusted advisors and grow their businesses.