State Rep. Jeff Burkhart, Longtime Clarksville Leader, Dies at 63
State Representative Jeff Burkhart, a dedicated public servant and longtime Clarksville government leader and businessman, died Friday morning at his home. He was 63 years old.
Burkhart, a Republican who had represented state House District 75 since 2023, was remembered by colleagues and community members as a humble servant leader whose dedication to Montgomery County left an indelible mark on Tennessee.
Tributes Pour In From Across Tennessee
Speaker Cameron Sexton
“We are deeply saddened on the sudden passing of Representative Jeff Burkhart. He was a high quality man that put community and service above self. He will be missed dearly here on earth, we take peace knowing he is being welcomed into God’s eternal home,”
Scott Golden, Chairman of the Tennessee Republican Party, expressed deep sorrow over the loss:
“I’m very saddened to learn the news of the passing of Representative Jeff Burkhart. I was with Representative Burkhart last Tuesday at an event in Clarksville and he was excited about his work for Montgomery County in the coming legislative session. With his humility, calm demeanor, and fun nature it was always great to share a stage with him and I know that he was treasured by his district. Our prayers are with his family and many friends during this difficult season. Tennessee and our Republican family has lost a great one way too soon. Jeff Burkhart will be missed.”
U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn shared her condolences on social media Friday morning: “State Rep. Jeff Burkhart was a good friend who always showed up to help others. He loved representing Montgomery County and was fully dedicated to improving the lives of those he represented.”
The Tennessee House Republican Caucus released a statement honoring his service: “He served with dedication, humility, and a genuine love for the people of Montgomery County and the great state of Tennessee. Rep. Burkhart’s life of public service – from his years with the Clarksville Fire Department and his time on the Clarksville City Council to his work in the General Assembly – reflected his unwavering commitment to community, faith, and the values that bring Tennesseans together. His leadership on infrastructure improvements, education, public safety, and support for working families will leave a lasting impact on our state.”
Burkhart’s impact was felt across party lines. Democratic Caucus Chairman John Ray Clemmons said, “We’ve lost a beloved member of our legislative family. Rep. Burkhart was an exemplary public servant and champion for the families of Montgomery County. He touched many lives with his service and will be dearly missed by all in our State Capitol.”
A Life of Service to Clarksville
Jeffery Darrell Burkhart was a lifelong Clarksville resident who graduated from Northwest High School in 1980 and later earned an associate’s degree in Fire Science from Volunteer State Community College in 2014.
His career in public service began shortly after high school when he joined the Clarksville Gas and Water Department. In 1982, he transferred to the Fire Department, eventually rising to the rank of assistant fire chief. In 1985, he launched a successful career in construction, developing commercial and residential subdivisions throughout the region.
Burkhart entered elected office in 2008 when he was elected to Ward 12 of the Clarksville City Council. He served three consecutive terms, winning re-election in 2012 and 2016. In 2022, he was elected to the Tennessee House of Representatives for District 75 and was re-elected in 2024.
During his legislative service, Burkhart was an active member of numerous committees, including Commerce, State & Local Government, and various subcommittees focused on business, utilities, and public service.
Local Leaders Remember a Friend and Mentor
State Sen. Bill Powers of Clarksville reflected on their long partnership: “I am heartbroken over the passing of my friend and colleague Jeff Burkhart. We’ve been together for the last 11 years on both Clarksville City Council and the state legislature. His business acumen was unrivaled as was his legislative tact. Just a man of many talents and I will miss him deeply.”
State Rep. Ronnie Glynn of Clarksville said, “This morning I was devastated to learn that my friend and colleague Rep. Jeff Burkhart passed away. I was proud to serve alongside Rep. Burkhart and share a passion for serving the Clarksville community. He will be deeply missed by myself and our colleagues in the Tennessee State House.”
State Rep. Aron Maberry of Clarksville shared a particularly poignant memory: “Representative Jeff Burkhart was more than a colleague in the Montgomery County delegation – he became a true friend, a steady confidant, and someone I grew to deeply respect in our time serving together. Over the past week, as he walked through the loss of his mother (Jane Burkhart), I had the honor of standing beside him. I never imagined we would now be mourning his passing as well. His leadership, his kindness, and his unwavering dedication to the people he served will leave a lasting mark on all of us.”
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