Former Tennessee Gov. Winfield Dunn dies at 97

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Tennessee’s 43rd governor, Winfield Dunn, passed away peacefully Saturday afternoon, surrounded by family, at the age of 97, Gov. Bill Lee’s office announced.

According to a statement released by Lee’s office on Saturday, Sept. 28, Dunn was born in Meridian, Mississippi, on July 1, 1927. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II and then served as a reserve lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.

Dunn graduated from the University of Mississippi in 1950, which is the same year he married his wife, Betty. He continued his education at the University of Tennessee Medical Units in Memphis, earning his D.D.S. before going on to practice dentistry in Shelby County.

Officials said Dunn was elected governor of Tennessee in 1970, becoming the first Republican to hold that title in 50 years, even though he had never held public office prior to his election.

While serving as governor from 1971 to 1975, Dunn created a statewide kindergarten program, established public parks, prioritized highway construction, and created the Department of Economic and Community Development, according to Lee’s office. Dunn also served as chairman of both the University of Tennessee Board of Trustees and the Tennessee State Board of Regents.

“Governor Dunn’s life is marked by a profound faith in the Lord, a deep love for his family and friends, and unwavering service to the people of Tennessee,” Saturday’s release stated, adding that Dunn deeply valued civility and unified the Volunteer State as governor.

Multiple Tennessee leaders turned to social media to share their condolences for Dunn’s family.

Governor Winfield Dunn was, simply put, a genuine statesman. He was a true servant of the people of Tennessee who led with principled integrity, a strong faith, and a gracious love for others. Our state is a better place because of his service & leadership.

Maria and I join all Tennesseans in honoring Governor Dunn’s life, and we pray for Betty and the Dunn family in the days ahead.

Gov. Bill Lee (R-Tenn.)

We have lost a true and beloved statesman in Governor Winfield Dunn. I was one of many Republicans who got their start in politics on his historic 1970 gubernatorial campaign. The contributions he made to our party and our state are truly immeasurable. He will be greatly missed.

Lt. Gov. Randy McNally (R-Tenn.)

We are grieved to hear of the passing of former Gov. Winfield Dunn. Gov. Dunn was a dedicated servant trailblazer and a model of how a public servant should conduct themselves. We extend our prayers and sympathies to his family tonight.

Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett (R)

I am saddened to hear about the loss of former Governor Winfield Dunn. He was a great champion of Tennessee values, and he will be sorely missed by many. My heart is with his family and loved ones.

U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.)

Roberta and I are saddened to hear about the passing of Governor Winfield Dunn. He was a favorite son of West Tennessee who, through his service, inspired so many people all across the state of Tennessee. We are especially thinking about Betty, his favorite first lady and best girl, whom you rarely saw without him, and whose life exemplified a life well-lived.

I was honored to travel, campaign, and work with Governor Dunn on many occasions, and I always came away understanding that public service done right has the ability to change the lives of so many people.

Our prayers are with the entire Dunn family today as we truly celebrate a good man and a great public servant for the state of Tennessee.

U.S. Rep. David Kustoff (R-Tenn.)

I’m praying for the family of former Governor Winfield Dunn. His legacy will be one of dependability, passion, and commit

Tennessee Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R)

Governor Dunn was a pure gentlemen whose words were always uplifting and eloquent. His handwritten notes were thoughtful, articulate and always showed his love for others. While most knew Winfield Dunn as Governor; his profound impact is not limited to politics. He will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R)

Governor Winfield Dunn was a once in a generation gentleman who treated everyone with kindness and respect. He was a true Tennesseean in every sense of the word and will be deeply missed by us all. Our prayers are with his family tonight.

Tennessee House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R)

I’m deeply saddened by former Governor Winfield Dunn’s passing, remembering his exemplary leadership, character, and the honor of meeting him.

State Rep. Esther Helton (R)

I am sad to learn the passing of Governor Winfield Dunn, the 43rd Governor of Tennessee. I am sending prayers for his family tonight.

State Rep. Lowell Russell (R)

Governor Winfield Dunn exemplified the true spirit and commitment of a leader. I’m honored to have known him and to have had him as a friend. Tennessee is a better state because of his leadership and he will be dearly missed.

State Rep. Ron Gant (R)

Tennessee was in great hands under Governor Winfield Dunn’s leadership. Praying for his family during this time of loss.

State Rep. Greg Vital (R)

The State of Tennessee has lost a giant of a man with the announcement of the passing of Governor Winfield Dunn. His unexpected victory in 1970, making him the first Republican governor of Tennessee in almost half a century, laid the foundation for the modern day Tennessee Republican Party. His eloquence, kindness, intelligence, and humble presence allowed him to be a guiding force long after he left elective office.

The Tennessee Republican Party honored Governor Dunn with our highest award, the Howard Baker Award, at the 2017 Statesmen’s Dinner. His commitment to the Republican Party was only outshone by his dedication to the people of Tennessee and his family.

I deeply appreciate the advice and wisdom he shared during our many conversations. My prayers are with Mrs. Betty and the entire Dunn family during this time, and we appreciate them sharing such a wonderful man with the entire state of Tennessee.

Scott Golden, chair of the Tennessee Republican Party

Moments ago, we concluded our Third Annual Governor Winfield Dunn Dinner, and soon after, we received the news that Governor Dunn had passed. His legacy will forever stand as a pillar of Republican history. We are profoundly grateful for his unwavering leadership, his dedication to Tennessee, and his steadfast commitment to the principles we hold dear. Governor Dunn was a trailblazer whose vision and values shaped our state, and his memory will continue to inspire generations to come. May we honor his life by carrying forward his work and dedication to our great state.

Tennessee Young Republicans

Funeral arrangements are still pending, officials reported Saturday night.

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