Former Lebanon Mayor Don Fox dies

LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN) — One of Lebanon's former mayors has died, according to a post made by a family member on social media.

Family members and elected officials across Wilson County cofirmed the death of Don Fox. While the cause of death has yet to be released, News 2 has learned Fox was recently ill.

Fox served as mayor from 1994 until 2008 and has been credited with creating the Hartmann Drive interchange. Additionally, Fox's efforts helped bring Dell to the area, which employed hundreds in Lebanon. Fox's legacy lives on through the Don Fox Park and Wading Pool.

The City of Mt. Juliet memorialized Fox on their Facebook page Friday, saying his "vision and commitment left a lasting impact on his community."

I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Mayor Don Fox. Mayor Fox was a strong leader who always prioritized the safety and security of our community during Lebanon's exponential growth. He was a true patriot of our country, selflessly serving in the United States Navy. My prayers, along with the department’s, are with Mayor Fox’s loved ones and friends.

Chief Mike Justice with the Lebanon Police Department

Lebanon city councilmember Joey Carmack said in a social media post that he'd known Fox since he was a child when his father first started working for the city.

"I remember him first turning Castle Heights into City Hall and getting to see it be constructed. Watching city council meetings on TV as a kid with my Dad while Don was mayor never knowing that one day I would sit on the city council," Carmack's post reads, in part. "He was someone I went to when I was looking at running for city council, and gave me advice then and continued to me [sic] a mentor and good friend."

Wilson County Mayor Randall Hutto mourned the loss of Fox on social media Friday, adding that knowing Fox was a privilege.

"He wasn't just a great mayor; he was also a great man," Hutto said. "Please join me in praying for his family at this time."

Lebanon mayor Rick Bell also posted a statement to social media on Fox's passing, adding all flags will be at half-staff until after Fox's memorial service. Bell celebrated Fox's accomplishments as mayor, but added the loss would also be felt on a personal level.

"On a personal level, I remember the days when Mayor Fox and I sat at the same table at Rotary. We had conversations both serious and funny," Bell added. "Although I had no idea that I would one day hold the same office, I look back at his stories of being Mayor and work hard to follow in his footsteps."