Former state senator and representative Frank Niceley of Tennessee has passed away at the age of 78. Niceley, a notable figure in Tennessee's political landscape, died on Thursday, confirmed by reports stating he died of a heart attack. A Strawberry Plains farmer and businessman, Niceley wielded significant influence during his time in both the Tennessee House of Representatives and the Senate.
Niceley's tenure in politics spanned several decades, with his career stretching back to his first election to the state House in 1988. He served in the House for two terms before returning in 2004 and later being elected to the Senate in 2012. Despite an impactful career, his time as a senator ended following a defeat in the 2024 Republican primary by Jessie Seal, according to Tennessee Lookout.
Frank Niceley was known for sponsoring various pieces of legislation including bills that would legalize hemp farming, measures to prohibit health departments from pressuring individuals into getting vaccines, and efforts to create new public defender positions. His more controversial positions included arguing against criminalizing cockfighting and making contentious comparisons during his time in office.
A statement by Lt. Gov. Randy McNally described Niceley as "the unofficial historian of the Senate" and "a Tennessee original in every possible sense." McNally said, "Fiercely independent, deeply rooted in his community and unwavering in his convictions, he brought a farmer's wisdom and a statesman’s heart to public service," as reported by Tennessee Lookout. The loss is felt across the state, and McNally expressed that Niceley was a "passionate fighter for rural Tennessee and the values he held dear."
Condolences and statements have also poured in from various Tennessee leaders. U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett tweeted his sorrow, stating, "The only thing he loved more than our State was his family. I will miss him," which was highlighted in a WVLT publication. Similarly, Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton remembered Niceley for his wit and stories, calling him "the embodiment of true conservative leadership" in a tweet cited by WIVK.
Frank Niceley's career and legacy in Tennessee politics were marked by his unwavering commitment to his principles and his unique personality. As the state mourns his passing, his impact on Tennessee’s legislative history remains evident.
