About US

Three Generations Since 1939, when M.C. Hitson opened one of Blount Count's first insurance agencies, Hitson became a name known for comprehensive coverages at competitive prices. Developing a Precedence In the late 1930's, my grandfather opened an insurance business and became the first local agent with what is now a nationwide company. His office, where he lived and worked until his retirement was in the Harper House, downtown Maryville. His son, Charles R. Hitson, my father, returned from India at the end of World War II and began helping and learning his Dad's business. My father later moved on as sales manager with another nationwide company. He retired in 1985. I began in 1978 as an agent and ten years later opened Hitson Insurance Agency. Our direction since that time, has been toward service and growth. We try always to ask ourselves' "How can we better serve the people we do serve?" We are dedicated to service above all. - Gary Hitson

Quality ... A+ rated companies for top-quality life and health products for all ages - auto, home, boat.

Excellence ... companies chosen best buys by independent consumer research groups.

Superiority ... an American Independent Agency System. A choice of companies.

Staff

Gary Hitson - Licensed Agent

Gary followed family footsteps of three generations into the insurance industry. He has been a licensed agent for near 30 years now. When our customers are looking for an agent who is conscientious, conservative and above all, knowlegable about insurance – he is their man. As a successful businessman himself, Gary is particularly aware of the growing insurance needs of local business owners in and around Blount County. Gary has been actively involved in Blount County since 1978. Gary's steadfast integrity has secured deep roots with top insurance carriers nationwide. "As independent agents, we insist on quality, excellence and superiority in the companies we represent." "As progress would have it, we continually keep up with the times in terms of technology and office efficiency, however, we never lose sight of knowing our customers needs and keeping them first above all else." "I believe that is what has sustained Hitson Insurance for more than half a century now." Besides the insurance world, Gary has a lovely daughter, Sara, Allie "The Insurance Dog" who accompanies him to the office every day, and is an accomplished guitar picker and loves music! "I hope you'll allow us the opportunity to review your insurance needs and make you a part of the Hitson family history."

Michele Self - Licensed Agent

Michele was born and raised in Richmond, Indiana. At the age of sixteen, she moved to East Tennessee. She has been married to Darrell Self for the past thirty years, and they have been blessed with two children. Their son, Darren, daughter and son-in-law, Dana and Andy Basler, all currently reside in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Michele started her career at Hitson Insurance as a part-time customer service representative in April 1992. Michele quickly learned to love insurance because of the opportunity to offer coverage that protects clients, while utilizing companies she is proud to represent. As a full-time, in office agent, Michele’s main focus is customer service. From quoting to policy changes, she takes time to assist customers whenever needed. Michele has provided a service of reliable insurance coverage to the Blount County area for over 18 years and looks forward to a bright future with Hitson Insurance.

Kathy Cormier - Licensed Agent

Kathy joined the Hitson team in 2010 after a career in real estate and business development. Her resume reflects the desire to help people get what they want at a price they can afford. She continues that mission assisting our customers in all lines of insurance. She was raised in a large family of 12 and has 4 children of her own. Kathy moved to east Tennessee eight years ago from New England and has never looked back. "Tennessee has always been in our home through it's music, so moving here made it home right away." "I look forward to evaluating your current insurance and researching our more than 25 carriers for just the right company to provide you the security you need!"

Jasmine Richard - Receptionist

In May of 2010, Jasmine graduated from Southern Adventist University near Chattanooga, TN with a BA in Archaeology, Near Eastern Studies. Jasmine recently married Justin in April of 2010 and hopes to eventually move out to Colorado for her education. Next to her husband, the loves of her life are her Spanish mastiff, Samson, and her toy poodle, Amany. Looking for employment to help fund her future master’s education in Art History, the Hitson Agency graciously extended their helping hand. Jasmine helped Mr. Hitson back in her high school days and has now returned taking a receptionist position. Jasmine is excited to learn as much as she can while still providing excellent service to all of the clients she comes into contact with.

Nes Karnoupakis

  For more than 30 years, Nes has been active in the insurance industry. Having owned several businesses throughout this time, he has gained a wealth of knowledge on how to run a business and acquired excellent skills in customer relations.  During a 9 year tenure with Metropolitan Life, he was awarded Top District Agent several times and qualified for several other prestigious awards as well.  In 2008, it was a perfect marriage when Nes decided to take up his pen to write business with Hitson Insurance as an agent.  He handles each case on a personal level applying care and diligence to provide the best service possible.  Nes resides in Blount County with his lovely wife, Gail.