SHELBYVILLE, TN (WGNS) - Tributes are pouring in from across the state following the Friday (7/3/2026) afternoon passing of former Tennessee State Senator Jim Tracy. The 69 year old leader died after battling an aggressive form of cancer. Tracy represented State District 14, including parts of Rutherford County, from 2005 until 2017. During his notable 13-year tenure in the General Assembly, he served as Speaker Pro Tempore and chaired the Senate Transportation Committee, establishing himself as a driving force behind the modern majority era of the Tennessee Republican Party. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time, and will be announced later by Doak Howell Funeral Home in Shelbyvile.
In addition to his local legislative work, Tracy is widely remembered for his role in one of the closest U.S. congressional primaries in Tennessee history. In 2014, Tracy challenged incumbent U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais for the 4th Congressional District seat. Despite outspending the incumbent three-to-one and carrying the backing of major state Republican leaders, Tracy fell short by a mere 38 votes. Demonstrating a commitment to party unity, Tracy chose to concede the heavily contested race after two weeks of review rather than dragging the state election commission, volunteers, and his family through prolonged legal battles. Local party officials at the time praised the move, noting that Tracy chose what was right for the conservative cause over personal political ambition.
Honored by General Assembly this past February
Tracy's immense impact on state infrastructure and public service was recently honored by his former colleagues on Capitol Hill. In February, the 114th General Assembly unanimously passed Senate Joint Resolution 665, a bipartisan effort sponsored by Tracy's successor, Senator Shane Reeves of Murfreesboro, and Memphis Democrat Senator Raumesh Akbari. The 95-0 vote commended Tracy's decades of service and coincided with a legislative designation naming "the Senator Jim Tracy Overpass" on the Shelbyville bypass, the community in which he lived and served. This honors his years of leading transportation initiatives for the Volunteer State.
Named State Director for USDA Rural Development
In 2017 Tracy vacated his state senate seat after receiving a presidential appointment to serve as the Tennessee State Director for USDA Rural Development. In that federal role, he successfully directed loans and grants to boost infrastructure and job growth in rural communities. Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Scott Golden released a statement praising Tracy as a true statesman who never met a stranger and whose mentorship will guide Tennessee for decades to come.
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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 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
Jim was a friend and a colleague. We served together. He loved his family, loved serving Tennessee and never met a stranger. He will be missed but his legacy of sacrifice and achievement will never be forgotten. Rest easy my friend, you have earned your reward.
Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr
Jim cared deeply for Rutherford County, the state of Tennessee, and for the unborn. I greatly appreciate his advice and service to our community. Rest in peace my friend.
State Rep. Dr. Bryan Terry
