‘Legendary’ Nashville attorney Bart Durham dead at 89
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Nashville has lost a legendary figure.
Bart Durham, a longtime Nashville public injury attorney, has died, his family announced Tuesday, April 9. He was 89 years old.
“It is with deep sorrow and a burdened heart that I share the news of the passing of my father, Bart Durham, a legendary figure in the local legal community and a beloved patriarch to our family,” his son, Blair Durham, said in a statement.
“Beyond being the founding force and public face of Bart Durham Injury Law, he was, at his core, a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. His tireless commitment to justice, unparalleled work ethic, and boundless generosity have left an enduring impact on our family, our firm, and the countless lives he touched.”
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Durham was well-known in Nashville and Middle Tennessee, establishing his injury law firm in 1975 after serving in the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office in 1969. According to his obituary, Durham was in charge of federal civil rights cases throughout the state, and even argued three cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, which was among his proudest accomplishments.
Born in 1935 and raised in Ripley, Durham was a “small-town boy with humble beginnings” and attributed his life’s success to “hard work, others’ investments in him, and luck.”
“He was an amazing lawyer, one of the best I have ever met. Great guy, great life, and great legacy. You will be missed my brother,” former Metro Councilman and attorney Adam Dread, Esq. said. “Bart Durham not only has helped out his clients, he has helped out young lawyers, and so many wonderful things about Nashville could be attributed to him.”
Durham served in the U.S. Army for two years, spending time in Germany, before attending the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. He finished his degree at Southern Law University in Memphis.
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Blair’s statement continues below:
Dad’s life journey, from a modest small-town upbringing to a distinguished advocate for the underserved, stands as a testament to his unyielding dedication,” Blair said. “Serving in the U.S. Army, excelling in legal practice, and fearlessly championing the cause of personal injury victims, his legacy reaches far beyond the legal realm.
His influence extended to education, as seen in his support for individuals pursuing knowledge. His legacy will endure in the lives he influenced and the principles he instilled in our family and firm.
Working alongside my father was a privilege, and his guidance proved invaluable. His blend of passion for justice and approachable demeanor made him not only a respected attorney but also a cherished mentor and friend to many.
As we navigate this period of mourning, we simultaneously celebrate the extraordinary life he led—marked by flair, laughter, and a genuine love for community. My family and I are grateful for the overwhelming support during this challenging time.
We commit to upholding my father’s legacy by continuing to champion the values he held dear and providing the same compassionate legal advocacy that has defined Bart Durham Injury Law for decades.
Blair P. Durham
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