Tennessee Lawmakers Mourn the Death of Democrat State Rep. Bill Beck

Tennessee lawmakers are mourning the loss of State Representative Carson “Bill” Beck (D-Nashville) who passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on Sunday.

Beck was first elected to the House in 2014 and served as a member on many committees, including the Civil Justice Committee, State Government Committee, Transportation Committee, Ethics Committee, Civil Justice Subcommittee, Departments & Agencies Subcommittee, and Workplace Discrimination and Harassment Subcommittee.

Beck’s district included parts of downtown Nashville, East Nashville, Germantown, Inglewood, Madison, Old Hickory, and parts of Donelson throughout his tenure in the House, according to the TN House Democratic Caucus.

Elected officials at the federal and state level mourned Beck’s passing.

House Minority Leader Karen Camper (D–Memphis) stated, “Bill Beck was one of my closest friends. He was not only my colleague, but also my confidant. His warmth, intellect & passion for people made the House a better place. Bill was well respected by members on both sides of the aisle.”

Governor Bill Lee wrote in a social media post, [Maria] and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Rep. Bill Beck, a faithful, dedicated public servant and friend. We pray for God’s peace and comfort over his family and loved ones during this time.

Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti called Beck a “true statesman and strong voice for his constituents in Nashville,” adding, “We appreciate his great service to Tennessee.”

Secretary of State Tre Hargett stated that Beck was “smart, witty, and passionate,” adding that he “treated others with respect, and he served our state well.”

House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) called Beck a “dedicated servant and powerful voice for the city of Nashville, a husband, father, and friend to everyone in the General Assembly.”

House Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) stated, “Bill had that ability to still be your friend even when he totally disagreed with you. The people of Nashville lost an effective leader and the [Tennessee House of Representatives] lost a friend.”

Republican U.S. Representative Mark Green (R-TN-07) added in a social media post, “Camie and I are praying for State Representative Beck’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Bill served the people of Davidson County with everything he had—he will be missed.”

Nashville Mayor John Cooper called Beck a “constant charming and kind presence,” adding, “He brightened every room with his grace and wit, and he made politics better for us all.”

The Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators also published a press release mourning Beck’s passing, stating, “[Beck] was a phenomenal legislator, a true Democrat, and a loyal friend to the TN Black Caucus.”

Beck was 61 at the time of his passing.

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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network.
Photo “State Rep. Bill Beck” by Bill Beck.

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