(The Center Square) – Tennessee state Rep. Jeff Burkhart, R-Clarksville, has died, according to statements and social media posts from state officials.
He was 63.
Burkhart, R-Clarksville, was first elected to the Tennessee House of Representatives in 2022. He was reelected to another two-year term in 2024. Before that, Burkhart served three terms on the Clarksville City Council.
House Majority Leader William Lamberth, in a statement posted on social media, wrote, “Today I lost a good friend and Tennessee lost a phenomenal public servant. Representative Jeff Burkhart passed away at home this morning and will be deeply missed by us all. Jeff was simply a solid guy who got along with everyone and served his community with distinction. Please pray for his family and the entire Montgomery County community.”
House Speaker Cameron Sexton said he was deeply saddened by Burkhart’s death.
“He was a high quality man that put community and service above self,” Sexton said on social media. “He will be missed dearly here on earth, we take peace knowing he is being welcomed into God’s eternal home.”
Rep. Ronnie Glynn, D-Clarksville, who represented Montgomery County with Burkhart, said Burkhart’s roots were deep in the Clarksville community.
“Jeff also served on the board of the Montgomery County Education Foundation, sat on the advisory board of the Sexual Assault Center, and worked as assistant fire chief for the Clarksville Fire Department,” Glynn said in a statement. “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.”
Democratic House Caucus Chairman John Ray Clemmons said Burkhart was a “beloved member of our legislative family.”
“Rep. Burkhart was an exemplary public servant and champion for the families of Montgomery County,” Clemmons said. “He touched many lives with his service and will be dearly missed by all in our State Capitol.”
Republican U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn called Burkhart 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. My condolences to his family and friends. He will be deeply missed,” Blackburn said.
