Claiborne Co, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – Political leaders and local officials across Tennessee are mourning the death of Claiborne County Mayor Joe Brooks, who was killed Saturday in a motorcycle crash in Union County.
Brooks, the chief executive officer of Claiborne County, died after a crash on Highway 33. Authorities have not released additional details about the wreck, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol continues its investigation.
The news prompted an outpouring of condolences from elected officials, community leaders and public agencies throughout East Tennessee.
Burchett: “Joe Was a Good Dude”
U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett said he spoke with members of Brooks’ family following the tragedy and remembered the mayor as a dedicated public servant.
“I talked to some of his family this morning. Please say a prayer for them,” Burchett said in a Facebook video. “Joe was a good dude. He was always concerned about what was going on in Claiborne County. We met all the time.”
In a caption accompanying the video, Burchett described Brooks as a friend and asked Tennesseans to keep the family and residents of Claiborne County in their thoughts and prayers.
State Leaders Offer Condolences
State Sen. Jessie Seal said he was “shocked and saddened” to learn of Brooks’ death.
U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn also shared a message of sympathy.
“Chuck and I are heartbroken by the news of Mayor Joe Brooks’ tragic passing,” Blackburn said. “We are praying for the people of Claiborne County and everyone who loved Joe.”
State Rep. and local officials from across the region echoed those sentiments as news of the mayor’s death spread Saturday.
Fellow Mayors Remember a Friend
Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters described Brooks as a dedicated leader who served his constituents with integrity.
“I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Claiborne County Mayor Joe Brooks,” Waters said. “He was a dedicated public servant who did a tremendous job leading Claiborne County and serving its citizens with integrity and commitment.”
Loudon County Mayor Rollen “Buddy” Bradshaw shared a personal remembrance, recalling years of friendship and collaboration with Brooks.
“Joe was a great friend, ally, and loved serving his County,” Bradshaw wrote. “Joe and I almost always sat together at our various meetings over the last eight years and there were always plenty of laughs to go along with the conversation.”
Bradshaw said the two had recently shared a meal together and reflected on the unexpected loss.
Community Agencies Pay Tribute
The Claiborne County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security called Brooks a “faithful servant to Claiborne County” who cared deeply about the community.
Claiborne County Schools also expressed condolences to Brooks’ family, friends and loved ones.
The Tazewell Police Department confirmed Brooks’ death earlier Saturday and extended sympathies to his family and the county he served.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have said Brooks’ motorcycle struck a guardrail on Highway 33 in Union County. No charges have been announced, and investigators have not released additional information about the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Funeral arrangements had not been announced as of Saturday evening.
Brooks’ death leaves a vacancy in Claiborne County government and marks the loss of a longtime public servant remembered by colleagues as a passionate advocate for his community and the people he served.
