Frank Buck

Frank Buck, longtime former Tennessee House Judiciary Committee chair, died at the age of 80 on Jan. 24, 2024 in Smithville. A native of Dowelltown, Buck served for 36 years in the Legislature representing District 40, which was composed of DeKalb, Smith, and Macon counties. He retired in 2008. During his tenure in the legislature, Buck was known for his colorful personality and backing of ethics legislation. In addition to serving as Judiciary Committee chair, Buck also served as vice chair of the House Transportation Committee, chair of the House Public Transportation and Highways Subcommittee, a member of the House Judicial Administration Subcommittee, and the House Criminal Practice and Procedure Subcommittee. He held a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Tennessee Tech and his law degree from the University of Tennessee. He also worked as a lawyer and farmer.