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SJR 1171

Memorials, Death - J.T. Bennett, Jr. -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Bailey

SJR 1171 memorializes J.T. Bennett, Jr. for his law enforcement, military service, and community involvement, offering condolences and an official commemorative copy.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
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Bill Summary · SJR 1171

Summary: Senate Joint Resolution 1171 (SJR 1171) — Tennessee, 114th General Assembly

Overview

  • Bill type: Senate Joint Resolution (SJR)
  • Sponsor: Senator Bailey (co-sponsored by Paul Bailey)
  • Session/Jurisdiction: Tennessee, 114th General Assembly
  • Subject: Memorial resolution honoring an individual
  • Status: Introduced and passed first consideration (as of 2026-04-20)

Main Purpose and Intent

SJR 1171 is a commemorative resolution honoring the memory of J.T. Bennett, Jr. It formally memorializes the late Mr. Bennett for his service to the state and nation, his professional accomplishments, community involvement, and family dedication. The resolution expresses sympathy to his family and requests the preparation of an appropriate copy of the resolution for presentation.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Recognition of Service: Acknowledges J.T. Bennett, Jr.’s long-standing service to the community through law enforcement and public life.
  • Biographical Highlights:
    • Born October 21, 1945, in Oak Ridge; son of J.T. Bennett, Sr. and Pearl Wilhite Bennett.
    • Graduated from Cookeville Central High School in 1964.
    • U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam War as an electronics equipment repairman.
    • Earned multiple military commendations: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device, Army Commendation Medal.
    • Lifelong memberships in Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion.
  • Professional and Civic Career:
    • Career with the Cookeville Police Department starting in July 1968, retiring in 2007 as a captain after about four decades of service.
    • Worked as a funeral assistant at Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home for several years, providing support to families.
  • Family and Personal Life:
    • Marriage to Ann Stockton Bennett for sixty years (married April 2, 1966).
  • Expression of Condolences: The resolution conveys sympathy to Mr. Bennett’s family and honors his character and public/private life.
  • Procedural Clause: Provides for an appropriate copy of the resolution to be prepared for presentation, with minor formatting specifics about the copy.

Who/What Would Be Affected

  • The immediate and formal recognition affects:
    • J.T. Bennett, Jr. (honored posthumously in the official record)
    • His family (through the expressed condolences and commemorative note)
    • Members and readership of the Tennessee General Assembly and state audience, who will be aware of his public service and personal contributions

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and Action:
    • Filed for introduction: 2026-04-17
    • Passed first consideration: 2026-04-20
  • Next Steps (if pursued): As a memorial resolution, it typically proceeds through standard ceremonial channels in the Senate and House and, if agreed, is presented to the family or a designated recipient. The primary effect is symbolic and ceremonial, with no fiscal or regulatory changes.

Note

  • The document is a memorial resolution rather than substantive legislation. It does not create or alter laws or policies but serves to officially recognize and honor the life and service of J.T. Bennett, Jr.

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

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