CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — According to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee Representative Jeff Burkhart (R-Clarksville) was discovered deceased at his residence in Montgomery County early Friday morning. Authorities were notified of the situation around 7 a.m., but details regarding the circumstances of his death have yet to be disclosed.
Burkhart, who had been serving District 75 since 2022, was a lifelong resident of Montgomery County and a previous firefighter in Clarksville, where he attained the position of assistant fire chief before starting his career in public service. In 2008, he became a member of the Clarksville City Council and later was elected to the Tennessee General Assembly, where he continued to serve until his untimely death.
His unexpected passing has elicited a wave of sorrow from fellow legislators across different political affiliations. Senator Marsha Blackburn expressed that Burkhart would be “greatly missed,” while Tennessee Republican Caucus Chair Jeremy Faison shared his sentiments regarding his friendship with the late representative and offered his condolences.
The Tennessee House Republican Caucus issued a statement honoring Burkhart’s dedication to public service:
“The Tennessee House Republican Caucus is profoundly saddened by the loss of our esteemed colleague, State Rep. Jeff Burkhart from District 75. He exemplified commitment, humility, and a true love for the people of Montgomery County and the state of Tennessee.
Rep. Burkhart’s service—spanning his tenure with the Clarksville Fire Department and his experiences on the Clarksville City Council to his participation in the General Assembly—demonstrated his steadfast dedication to community, faith, and the principles that unite Tennesseans. His efforts in infrastructure development, education, public safety, and advocacy for working families will have a significant, lasting effect on our state.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, as well as all those who cherished and served beside him. We express our sincerest condolences as they face this profound loss.”
The Tennessee House Democrats also paid their respects, with Caucus Chairman John Ray Clemmons commenting:
“We have lost a cherished member of our legislative family. On behalf of the entire House Democratic Caucus, I extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the family, friends, and loved ones of Rep. Jeff Burkhart. He was a distinguished public servant and advocate for the families of Montgomery County. His contributions impacted many lives, and he will be greatly missed by everyone in our State Capitol.”
Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton described Burkhart as a “high-quality man” in an online statement.
Originally from Woodlawn, Tennessee, Burkhart dedicated his life to serving his local community. The investigation into the circumstances of his death is ongoing, and officials have not shared additional information.
This is an evolving story. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.
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