Nashville Democratic Rep. Bill Beck dies

Editor’s note: This story has been updated to reflect the cause of death.

Nashville Democratic state Rep. Bill Beck died on Sunday at the age of 61 after suffering heart attack.

Beck was elected to the Tennessee General Assembly in 2014 and was currently serving on the House Ethics, Civil Justice, Transportation and State Government committees. He became known among Democrats and Republicans as a genial colleague, easy to work with and easy to joke with.

Carson Bill Beck was a native of Nashville. He graduated from University of School of Nashville, Belmont University and The Nashville School of Law, before opening a law practice with his mother, Martha Lu Cone Beck. He was active in the Madison community and served as a board members for organizations including the Kiwanis Club of Madison and Madison-Rivergate Chamber of Commerce.

House Speaker Cameron Sexton tweeted “We are incredibly saddened to hear that our colleague, Rep. Bill Beck, has unexpectedly passed away. Bill was a dedicated servant and powerful voice for the city of Nashville, a husband, father, and friend to everyone in the General Assembly.”

In a statement, Democratic Caucus Chair John Ray Clemmons of Nashville, said “Our caucus is a family. Today we lost a brother, and we are devastated. Our hearts go out to Pam, Meredith and Bill’s entire family. Bill and I entered the legislature together, and it was a true honor to serve with and learn from him. He was a source of advice, inspiration and much-needed levity for me and many others at the most crucial moments. Everyone privileged enough to ever cross Bill’s path knows what a special person and caring individual he was. He truly had a public servant’s heart and the most memorable laugh. I will miss my dear friend and colleague. Please join us as we lift the Beck family up in prayer.”

Nashville Mayor John Cooper tweeted: “Bill Beck was a constant charming and kind presence. He brightened every room with his grace and wit, and he made politics better for us all. Bill was a true friend, and we will miss him everyday. Our prayers are with his wife Pam & their family as we all mourn this tragic loss.”

Beck is survived by his wife, Pam, and his daughter, Meredith.