JEFFERSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) — Frank Niceley, a former state politician from East Tennessee who served in the Tennessee General Assembly for over two decades, has died. He was 78 years old.

Niceley died Tuesday after suffering a heart attack, Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Coffey said. He had a cardiac event at his home and was taken to Jefferson Memorial Hospital. he was pronounced dead at 2:30 p.m.

He graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1969 with a bachelor's degree in soil science. The Republican lawmaker was first elected to the Tennessee House of Representatives in 1988, representing the 35th district for two terms. Niceley was elected to represent the 17th house district in 2004 and won subsequent reelections in 2006, 2008, and 2010.

He was elected to the Tennessee Senate in 2012, representing the 8th district, which is comprised of Claiborne, Grainger, Hancock, Jefferson and Union counties as well as a portion of Sevier County. Niceley won reelection in 2016 and 2020 before being defeated in the 2024 Republican primary by Jessie Seal.

Several lawmakers shared messages of condolences Thursday, including Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) and U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (R-Knoxville).

I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Senator Frank Niceley. He was always quick witted and never short of a story based off his 'Frankisms.' Frank was the embodiment of true conservative leadership and had a deep love for our state. My prayers are with his family and the community he served so faithfully.

Speaker Cameron Sexton

"I am incredibly saddened to hear about the death of my long time friend Frank Niceley," Burchett wrote. "He served The State of Tennessee in our Legislature for multiple terms. The only thing he loved more than our State was his family. I will miss him."

Senator Richard Briggs wrote, "Sen. Frank Niceley was a friend to all the Senate. His down home humor and common sense approach to issues were unrivaled. We all will miss this one-of-a-kind great man who always was looking out for the little guy."

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/tennessee-news/former-tennessee-state-senator-frank-niceley-dies-at-78/