TACIR mourns longtime administrator Michael Timme
Michael Timme, longtime director of administration for TACIR, died Feb. 7, 2025, at home following a briefly battle with glioblastoma, a highly aggressive form of brain cancer.
Timme had recently celebrated 35 years of service to the state of Tennessee, serving as director of administration for TACIR since 2005 as well as working for the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, the Tennessee Department of Education, and the Comptroller of the Treasury.
Affectionately called “Miguel” by many, TACIR officials released a statement recalling his sense of humor and role as a mentor to many.
"Michael was kind, generous, and patient, even in the most trying times,” the statement read. “Known for his dry wit and wry sense of humor, he was often heard asking staff, "’Do you know why it’s so cold in here? It’s to keep the comedy fresh.’ Or remarking, 'I’m not as strong as I look.’ He is simply one of the coolest people we have ever known. His vast knowledge and experience allowed him to help staff learn to navigate the intricacies of state government and serve as a mentor to newer staff. In his free time, Michael was a talented musician with an impressive guitar collection. He enjoyed playing gigs around town with his ukulele band, The Ukedelics. Michael was an also an outdoor enthusiast who enjoyed hiking and camping among the beautiful scenery offered by Tennessee and states across the nation. His joy, warmth, and dedication to public service will be missed by us all.”
Timme is survived mother Nancy, who is 94; his children Ruth, Clara, Anna, and Carl; grandchildren Ivy, Abigail, Maddie, Edie, Ruby, and Eloise; and his loving partner Carolyn Breda.
Timme’s family said they are planning a celebration of life with a date and location to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks friends consider making a donation to Fanny's School of Music, an inclusive space dedicated to music education, music therapy, community programs, and performances where Timme spent much of his time..
Donations can be online at https://www.fannysschoolofmusic.org/ or to their address: 1101 Holly St., Nashville, TN 37206.