COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Former Cookeville Mayor Ricky Shelton said he will not run for office in the August 2026 election.
Shelton shared the announcement in a Facebook post, saying the decision came after prayer and conversations with his wife, Shannon.
Shelton served on the Cookeville City Council from 2002 to 2010 and later as mayor from 2014 to 2022. He said serving the city has been one of the greatest honors of his life.
“After heartfelt conversations with Shannon and seeking God’s clear guidance and perfect timing, we have discerned that this is not the season for me to seek elected office again,” Shelton wrote.
Shelton thanked supporters who had encouraged him to run again. He added that although he will not be seeking office, he plans to remain involved in the community and continue serving Cookeville in other ways.
Here’s a beautiful story of how one mother turned her grief journey into a gathering of gratitude… and organ donation awareness.
Robb Coles highlights a special event organized by Cari Hollis – whose 26-year old son Austin died two years ago. Austin agreed to be an organ donor – and that single gesture saved multiple lives.
Cari reached out to as many recipients she could find – several of whom traveled to Nashville for an emotional celebration in Austin’s honor. One woman – whose life was saved by receiving Austin’s lungs – put it simply: “He’s my angel”.
- Rhori Johnston
