Herron had been hospitalized since July 1 following a jet ski accident on Kentucky Lake, which resulted in internal bleeding and extensive injuries to his arm and pelvis. Despite receiving treatment at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, Herron succumbed to his injuries.
Herron's wife, Rev. Nancy Carol Miller-Herron, expressed her grief and shared that her husband passed away while doing what he loved most - spending time with their sons and their friends in Tennessee outdoors. She described Herron as someone who loved his family with all his might and whose spirit was always most free in nature.
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Herron, an attorney from Dresden, Tennessee, dedicated 26 years of his life to serving in the state's House and Senate. During his tenure, he held various leadership positions within the Democratic Party, including floor leader and caucus chair. He was known for his unwavering commitment to his duties, having never missed a day of session except for the birth of his youngest son. From 2013 to 2015, Herron served as the chairperson of the state Democratic Party.
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In addition to his political career, Herron was a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin and one of the first students to earn joint degrees in divinity and law from Vanderbilt University. As an ordained Methodist minister, he authored three books, including one titled "God and Politics: How Can a Christian Be in Politics?"
July 10, 2023
Funeral services for Herron are scheduled to take place on Saturday at the First United Methodist Church in Martin.
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Condolences poured in from various political figures following the news of Herron's passing. Former Vice President Al Gore, a fellow Tennessee Democrat, referred to Herron as a dear friend and one of the state's most devoted citizens. Democratic Representative Steve Cohen described Herron as bright, diligent, and honest, stating that he was a politician destined for greatness. Republican Representative David Kustoff acknowledged Herron's dedication to serving West Tennessee and the entire Volunteer State.
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Tennessee House Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison expressed his fondness for Herron, describing him as the kind of person that one couldn't help but like.
Joe Hill, a longtime Tennessee Democratic political operative who worked closely with Herron on multiple campaigns, praised Herron's commitment to making healthcare more accessible to disadvantaged Tennesseans. Hill also highlighted Herron's dedication to education, victims' rights, and environmental quality, emphasizing his impact on the lives of average people. Hill believes that Herron's legacy of advocating for the least fortunate will serve as the gold standard of service for both Democrats and Republicans in Tennessee's future.
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Hill also shared a personal anecdote that demonstrated Herron's genuine and caring nature. When Hill's child was involved in a car crash, Herron drove 140 miles to be with Hill and his family in Memphis. In the rush, Hill's wife forgot to bring extra clothes, and Herron selflessly gave her his shirt to keep her warm.
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In 2010, Herron briefly ran for governor before becoming the Democratic nominee in Tennessee's 8th Congressional District. However, he ultimately lost the general election to Republican Stephen Fincher. Despite this setback, Herron continued to serve his community. After a tornado devastated his hometown of Dresden in 2021, he led a successful fundraising effort, raising over $100,000 to aid in the recovery efforts.
Former Representative John Tanner, who held the seat for over 20 years before Herron's candidacy, expressed his admiration for Herron's dedication and good heart. Tanner had hoped that Herron would succeed him in the seat upon his retirement.
Roy Herron will be remembered as a dedicated public servant who tirelessly worked for causes he believed in. His impact on Tennessee politics and his commitment to his community will leave a lasting legacy.
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