Former state Sen. Roy Herron dies after jet ski accident

Former Democratic state Sen. Roy Herron has died after suffering injuries from a jet ski accident earlier this month. He was 69.

According to reports, Herron was initially treated at Henry County Medical Center following the accident and was then flown to Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Herron enjoyed an active lifestyle for decades. He completed more than 40 marathons and ultra-marathons.

“Roy loved his family with all his might,” Herron's wife, the Rev. Nancy Carol Miller-Herron, said. “He passed doing what he loved most — spending time with our sons and their friends in the Tennessee outdoors where his spirit was always most free.”

Herron served 26 years in the state House and Senate and briefly considered a run for governor in 2010 before unsuccessfully running for Congress. In the state legislature, he rose through the ranks to become the Democratic floor and caucus chair. He served as the chair of the Tennessee Democratic Party from 2013 to 2015.

After his death, leaders from both parties expressed their condolences.

"Roy Herron was a dedicated and joyful warrior for the causes he held dear. Behind that warm smile, he was as tenacious as they come and never better than when he was fighting for public schools, affordable healthcare, and working families," Senate Democratic Leader Sen. Raumesh Akbari, D-Memphis, said in a statement.

House Minority Leader Karen Camper, D-Memphis, released a statement that spoke of Herron’s love of his constituents and his religion.“Roy loved his family and loved representing his neighbors in West Tennessee.  He always considered it an honor to be their voice in Nashville," Camper said. "He was also a God-fearing man who wrote books advising on how Christians can also serve in politics.”

House Democratic Caucus Chair John Ray Clemmons said Herron "will be missed by all."“Throughout his life, Roy Herron worked tirelessly for the people of Tennessee.  As a lawmaker, I have sincerely appreciated and valued his sage advice and perspective over the years," Clemmons said on Sunday. "Roy was a true public servant and a man of faith who loved his family, his fellow Tennesseans, and our great State."

Former Vice President Al Gore called Herron a "dear friend and one of Tennessee’s most devoted citizens."

"His untimely passing is a tragedy," Gore posted on Twitter. "Roy was a steadfast advocate for the working people of TN and always stood up for our most vulnerable. My heart goes out to his beloved family Nancy, John, Rick & Ben."

Republicans also praised Herron for his work.

Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, R-Oak Ridge, tweeted on Sunday: "My deepest condolences go out to the family of former Senator Roy Herron. He was a worthy adversary and passionate defender of his constituents. He will be missed."

Former Republican U.S. Sen. Bob Corker said on Sunday he was saddened to hear of Herron's death, calling him "a dedicated husband, father, and public servant."

"In the mid-90s, we ran many miles together always intensely discussing our points of view on policies relating to Tennesseans, our families, and our beliefs," Corker said. "While we differed at times, I always respected him and enjoyed our many hours together. My heart goes out to his family whom I know will miss him greatly."

Herron first served a decade as a state House member and then as the state Senator for the 24th District for 16 years.  He later became chairman of the Tennessee Democratic Party.

Herron taught law and divinity students at Vanderbilt University, as well as political science and criminal justice courses at the University of Tennessee at Martin. He authored three books, including "Things Held Dear: Soul Stories for My Sons."

Funeral services were planned for Saturday at First United Methodist Church in Martin.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Frank Gluck is the health care reporter for The Tennessean. He can be reached at fgluck@tennessean.com. Follow him on Twitter at @FrankGluck.

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This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Former state Sen. Roy Herron dies after jet ski accident