Tributes began pouring in Monday morning after longtime Tennessee lawmaker Douglas Henry III died at the age of 90.
"One of the most fun calls I have been able to make as governor was a call in 2015 to Sen. Henry when we knew we would be able to put funding for the new state museum in the budget. Sen. Henry was a tireless champion of the museum, its mission and the importance of preserving Tennessee history for future generations. His dedication to the museum may only be surpassed by his commitment to the state’s financial strength. I was fortunate to be able to visit with Sen. Henry Friday, and I can attest that the state’s finances were still top of mind to him. He served the state for nearly 50 years, and it is not an exaggeration to say that he is one of the primary reasons the state is on such solid financial footing today. He was a powerhouse intellect, courteous, kind, genuine and a statesman, and I will miss knowing that his wisdom and perspective are only a phone call away.” - Governor Bill Haslam
Sending our deepest condolences to his loved ones and friends. You will be missed greatly, Senator Henry-you were indeed a true statesman. https://t.co/doR62qSbfH
— TN House Democrats (@TNDemocrats) March 6, 2017
MORE: Douglas Henry, Tennessee's Longest-Serving Lawmaker, Dies At 90
In these crazy times we are going to miss the class and dignity of Senator Doug Henry.....RIP
— Daron Hall (@DaronHall7) March 6, 2017
We lost my friend @SenDouglasHenry last night. He loved our state with all his heart. I will miss him. https://t.co/BOCwSg1UL0 pic.twitter.com/RBo5wgVjGi
— Randy McNally (@ltgovmcnally) March 6, 2017
"It is impossible to quantify this loss or even put it into words. To me personally, Douglas Henry was a invaluable mentor and a trusted friend. To the state of Tennessee, he was far more. Douglas Henry was our state's financial guardian and protector. He always wanted what was best for his state, never for himself. A true gentleman, he was consistently kind and gracious to everyone. Whether you were a Republican or a Democrat, a prince or a parolee, Douglas Henry treated you with respect. The kindness he showed toward me-a young Republican member of the finance committee serving in Democratic-controlled legislature-is something I will carry with me for the rest of my days. And I am not alone. Nearly everyone he ever encountered can share similar stories. No one could spend time with him without coming away with an overwhelming sense of pride about being a Tennessean, or overwhelming envy if they were not. Douglas Henry loved Tennessee with all his heart. He truly was a man with no equal. I will miss him and I will never forget him." - Lt. Gov. Randy McNally:
Glad I had the opportunity to serve with Sen Doug Henry. His wisdom and compassion will be missed. #tnleg pic.twitter.com/KaVN6nunlz
— Harold M Love Jr. (@LoveforHouse58) March 6, 2017
“I first had the opportunity to work with Doug Henry in the mid-1990s during my time as commissioner of finance, and I last spoke with him on Friday to tell him how much I thought of him,” said Corker. “He was a true gentleman and a true Tennessee statesman. No one focused more over a longer period on the fiscal issues facing our state than Senator Henry, and with a steady hand and wise guidance, he set a tremendous example of bipartisanship and integrity in public service. I will truly miss Doug’s friendship and will keep the entire Henry family in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.” - Sen. Bob Corker
Sen. Doug Henry embodied quiet dignity and humble public service. His passing is a loss for all Tennesseans.
— Melissa Blackburn (@JudgeBlackburn) March 6, 2017
“Senator Douglas Henry’s tremendous impact on the city of Nashville and the Tennessee General Assembly, where he served with unparalleled distinction, will undoubtedly last for generations to come. He was a fervent student and teacher of our shared history, he was an expert on the state budget, and he set a high standard for decorum and decency in public life. Nashville was proud to call him one of ours, and we miss him already. I know I am joined by many across the State of Tennessee, which Senator Henry loved so dearly, in celebrating the life and legacy of a true statesman.” - Nashville Mayor Megan Barry
"Doug Henry was one of a kind. He was civil, courtly and brilliant. He made the legislature behave and tamed governors." - Congressman Jim Cooper
I was sad to learn of the news of Doug Henry's passing. He will be missed. -CF pic.twitter.com/aQyJl5T2yd
— Rep. Craig Fitzhugh (@craigfitzhugh) March 6, 2017
Senator Henry rests peacefully with Lolly. A true Southern gentleman and legislative giant - who knew Greek! Prayers for his family. https://t.co/p0Ol94buLZ
— Matthew Wiltshire (@MattAWiltshire) March 6, 2017
