Benefit 5K raises $3,000 for beloved Pegram Elementary custodian battling cancer

Nearly 100 community members gathered Saturday morning, June 27, to support one of South Cheatham's most familiar faces, raising $3,000 during a benefit 5K for longtime Pegram Elementary School custodian Quinten Gordon.

About 50 runners and walkers participated in the race, which was organized by Pegram Elementary teacher and former Harpeth Middle School Principal Audra Finch after Gordon was diagnosed with cancer in April.

Gordon, affectionately known as "Mr. Quinten" or "Mr. Q," has worked at Pegram Elementary since graduating from high school nearly four decades ago. The upcoming school year will mark his 40th year serving the school community.

Organizers originally set a fundraising goal of $1,000, reaching it the night before the race. By Saturday afternoon, the event had raised approximately $3,000 to help Gordon and his family with medical expenses and other needs during his treatment.

Although Gordon was unable to attend the event, members of his family were present as residents, school employees and local officials came together to show their support. Pegram Mayor Charles Morehead attended the race, along with representatives from Kingston Springs Elementary School and Harpeth Middle School.

Finch said organizing the event was an opportunity for the community to give back to someone who has spent decades caring for others.

"He takes care of everybody," Finch said. "It's nice to be able to take care of him."

Pegram Elementary Principal Sarah Spain echoed that sentiment.

"He would do anything for anybody and anything for any teacher in this building," Spain said.

Outside of his regular duties at Pegram Elementary, Gordon also spends weekends and summers helping clean schools throughout the South Cheatham cluster.

Race organizers presented awards to the top three finishers, including first place to Harpeth High School student and former Pegram Bluejay Xavier Jones, second place to a Pegram Elementary physical education teacher Logan Johnson and third place to Pegram Elementary parent Christine Pagnano.

A GoFundMe established following Gordon's diagnosis has since been paused. Those wishing to continue supporting him can make donations to his account at Community Bank in Pegram.

All photos by Cate Burgan