By Mike Sparks
Tennessee Statesman Jim Tracy, Devoted Public Servant and Community Leader, Dies at 69
I first met Jim Tracy when I ran for Rutherford County Commission in 2002. Jim was always positive and encouraging. He truly listened and cared about Tennesseans.
As I write this, my wife Felicia is playing on the floor with my two grandkids, Grace, three and a half, and Henry David, nineteen months. I think having grandkids gives you a different perspective, a paradigm shift on how one views life. In our world full of increasing chaos and a lack of civility in politics, Jim Tracy brought a sense of calmness and statesmanship, listening to everyone’s concerns. He brought a sense of steadiness, the kind that reminded you politics could still be about people — not just power.
Even in his final days, Jim’s devotion to public service and community remained clear—a true Tennessee Statesman and beloved leader whose legacy will continue in Middle Tennessee.
That steadiness is what I keep coming back to as I think about the news of his passing. Jim Tracy served Bedford County, Moore County and part of Rutherford County in the Tennessee Senate for years, and later served rural Tennessee again as the state’s USDA Rural Development director. But the titles never explained the man. What explained him was the way he made you feel like the only person in the room, whether you were a county commission candidate, a constituent with a problem, or an old friend on a golf course. Many considered him a mentor, someone whose guidance shaped their own path in public service. Tennessee lost a statesman this week. Those of us who knew him lost a friend.
Tributes poured in from current and former Tennessee leaders.
“I’m sadden to learn of the passing of Tennessee Senator Jim Tracy. Jim never met a stranger regardless of his time in politics, coaching, refereeing, or business. His election ushered in the majority era of the Tennessee Republican Party. He retired from the State Senate when he was appointed by President Trump to serve as the Tennessee State Director for USDA Rural Development. His mentorship of countless elected officials will guide Tennessee’s future for decades to come. He was an avid golfer and I will always cherish the many rounds, political conversations, and most importantly, the friendship.
Tennessee has lost a true statesman. The prayers of many are with the family and countless friends of Senator Jim Tracy.” Scott Golden Chairman, Tennessee Republican Party
U.S. Rep. John Rose said he and his wife, Chelsea, were mourning the loss of “a true leader in Tennessee.”
U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty called Tracy “a steadfast public servant” whose leadership left a lasting impact.
U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn called Tracy “a good man” and “a leader through and through,” saying he fought to help Republicans take the majority in the State Senate and never stopped serving the people of Tennessee. Blackburn said Tennessee “is better off because he answered the call to service,” adding that she was praying for his wife, Trena, and the rest of the family.
Secretary of State Tre Hargett recalled conversations shared during runs, golf outings and phone calls, saying Tracy “was blessed with the gift of being able to be everyone’s friend.”
Randy Boyd said Tracy “devoted his life to serving others with integrity, humility and kindness.”
Lt. Gov. Randy McNally called him “a man of great integrity, faith and unwavering dedication.” The Tennessee Municipal League praised his advocacy for the state’s cities and towns.
“I am truly saddened to hear the passing of my good friend Jim Tracy. Jim Tracy was a true statement. A good friend a good husband father and grandfather. I truly will cherish the days that we travel the State of Tennessee while at the Department of commerce insurance visiting local fire departments across this state. We had some great discussions about life and family that I will cherish. God bless him, his family, and all the friends that he had he will be truly missed.” Former Tennessee State Fire Marshall Gary Farley
“Jim Tracy was one of a kind. He was a Christian, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend to everyone he met. For me, he was a father figure and a best friend. He cared deeply about people and never met a stranger. I think God made him exactly for public service. Our state, and our communities around Rutherford County and Middle Tennessee are better off because of him. He will be greatly missed.” Former campaign staffer and NHC Director Clint Hall
Jim Tracy was one of the most generous and encouraging people I have ever known. He believed deeply in helping others and dedicated his time, talent, and resources to strengthening communities across Tennessee. To me, he was not only a Habitat leader and champion, but also a mentor and friend.
What I will remember most is his heart. Whenever I called him, he would answer with the same words: ‘Tell me something good, Colleen.’ That simple phrase reflected the way he lived his life. Jim looked for the good in people, celebrated their successes, and inspired everyone around him to do the same.
His impact on Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee and on countless lives across our state cannot be measured. We are better because of Jim Tracy, and he will be deeply missed.”— Colleen Dudley, State Director, Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee
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