– Frank Buck, longtime House member, passes away at 80
– Remembering Frank Buck, a dedicated House member for many years.
Frank Buck, Longtime Tennessee State House Member and Champion of Ethics Reform, Passes Away at 80
Frank Buck, a prominent figure in Tennessee politics and a longtime member of the state House of Representatives, has sadly passed away at the age of 80. Buck, a Democrat from Dowellton, represented DeKalb, Cannon, Smith, and part of Rutherford counties in the state legislature for an impressive 36 years.
During his time in the state House, Buck was a fervent advocate for ethics reform. He tirelessly worked towards establishing transparency and accountability in state government, fighting for public disclosure of lobbyists’ activities, financial disclosures for lawmakers, and the creation of a robust ethics commission.
One of Buck’s notable initiatives was a proposed legislation in 1994 that aimed to prohibit lawmakers from accepting even a cup of coffee from lobbyists. Although this bill did not pass, a similar proposal was eventually approved, allowing lawmakers to accept drinks or meals only if another legislator is present.
In 2005, Buck spearheaded legislation that required companies to disclose out-of-state consulting fees paid to state legislators or their spouses. He was not afraid to voice his opinions and stand up for what he believed was right for the institution of the state House.
Buck’s dedication to ethics reform did not go unnoticed. In 2005, The Tennessean named him one of the Tennesseans of the Year, recognizing his outstanding efforts in promoting ethical practices in government.
According to his obituary, Buck took great pride in his “Lemonade Stand Bill,” which prevented the Tennessee Department of Health from requiring certificates of health for lemonade stands. This legislation showcased Buck’s commitment to protecting small businesses and fostering entrepreneurship.
Born on September 26, 1943, in Trousdale County, Buck came from humble beginnings as the son of a tobacco and cattle farmer. He attended Lebanon High School, Tennessee Technological University, and the University of Tennessee College of Law. Before his career in politics, he worked as a farmer and an attorney in a family firm, Buck & Buck Attorneys at Law near Smithville.
Prior to his election to the legislature, Buck played a pivotal role in exposing and putting an end to a whiskey-for-votes scheme in DeKalb County during the mid-1970s. Overcoming the obstacles posed by the political machine, Buck won his first election and went on to bring about change in the DeKalb County Election Commission.
Elected to represent District 40 in 1973 at the young age of 29, Buck initially focused on rural issues, advocating for better funding for roads. Throughout his career, he chaired the House Judiciary Committee and the House Conservation and Environment Committee. Although he narrowly lost a bid for House Majority Leader in 1990 and a challenge for the speaker’s gavel in 2002, Buck left an indelible mark on Tennessee politics.
Former colleagues in the legislature fondly remember Buck for his signature outfit, consisting of a brown leather vest, khaki pants, a blue button-down shirt, and a cigar. He was respected by both Democrats and Republicans for his dedication to public service.
Buck retired from the legislature in 2008 but maintained friendships with his fellow lawmakers. His wisdom and guidance will be sorely missed by those who knew and worked with him.
Frank Buck is survived by his wife of over 61 years, Lena, four children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. A celebration of life service has been scheduled for Sunday, January 28, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Love Cantrell Funeral Home in Smithville.
Vivian Jones, a journalist covering state politics and government for The Tennessean, contributed to this article.
Please direct any inquiries to Vivian Jones at vjones@tennessean.com..
Frank Buck, longtime House member, dies at 80
Frank Buck, longtime House member, passes away at 80.
