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SJR 574

Memorials, Death - Dr. Barbara Alfreda Duncan-Cody -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Raumesh Akbari

Memorializes Dr. Barbara Duncan-Cody for her 45+ years as a pioneering OB/GYN, community leader, and philanthropist, recognizing her service and legacy.

Signed by Governor.
#death #memorials
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Bill Summary · SJR 574

Summary of Senate Joint Resolution 574 (SJR 574), Tennessee, 114th General Assembly

Main purpose and intent

  • SJR 574 is a memorial resolution honoring the life and memory of Dr. Barbara Alfreda Duncan-Cody of Millington, Tennessee.
  • The resolution expresses the General Assembly’s condolences and recognition of Dr. Duncan-Cody’s contributions to medicine, public service, and the community.

Key provisions and changes

  • Formal recognition: The resolution memorializes Dr. Duncan-Cody and reflects on her character, integrity, professional achievements, and community service.
  • Professional achievements highlighted:
    • Born April 25, 1946; high school: Manassas High School Class of 1964.
    • Undergraduate education at Knoxville College; Doctor of Medicine from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine (1980).
    • Over 45 years of professional experience as an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN).
    • Sole proprietor of Duncan-Cody Medical Group; noted as the first Black female OB/GYN to open a private practice in Memphis.
    • Retirement from medical practice in June 2025.
    • Affiliations: Methodist Hospitals of Memphis; Medical Auxiliary; Bluff City Medical Society.
  • Community and civic involvement:
    • Leadership roles in Delta Theta Sigma Sorority, Memphis Chapter of Links, Jack & Jill of America (charter member), and Memphis Chapter of The Society.
    • Service on the Shelby County 911 Board and the Methodist Healthcare Foundation Board of Directors.
    • Media recognition in The Commercial Appeal and Grace magazines.
  • Family and faith:
    • Describes Dr. Duncan-Cody as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and family-focused individual.
    • Lifelong member of Trinity Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Memphis.

Who or what would be affected

  • The resolution affects recognition and ceremonial acknowledgement by Tennessee’s General Assembly.
  • It has no direct regulatory or fiscal impact; its effect is symbolic and commemorative, honoring Dr. Duncan-Cody’s life and contributions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction and passage:
    • Introduced in January 2026; subsequently placed on the Senate consent calendar and adopted without opposition.
    • Passed both chambers with unanimous or broad support (e.g., 96-0 concurrence in the Senate; adoption on consent calendar; final passage likely around January 21–22, 2026).
  • Final actions:
    • Enrolled and transmitted; signed by the Governor and formally enacted as a memorial resolution.
    • Action history shows: Senate adoption (1/21/2026), House concurrence (1/22/2026), enrollment and signatures (late January 2026), and Governor’s signature (February 2026).

Notable details

  • Co-sponsor: Senator Raumesh Akbari.
  • The resolution includes a formal concluding clause permitting the official presentation of an appropriate copy to the family upon request.

If you’d like, I can add a brief comparison to other Tennessee memorial resolutions or extract direct quotes from the text for citation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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