You are here

Passing of Retired Magistrate Judge Kent Sandidge

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

It is with great sorrow that the Court reports the recent passing of former Magistrate Judge Kent Sandidge.  Judge Sandidge was the first magistrate judge in the Middle District of Tennessee.  He was instrumental in defining the role that magistrate judges play in our system of justice and was respected for his sense of justice.  He served the Middle District faithfully during an illustrious career that spanned over 20 years.  

Judge Sandidge was uniquely dedicated to public service.  He entered the judiciary despite the numerous alternative positions that were available to him, many of which were more financially lucrative.  He even volunteered to return to service, after initially retiring, when Judge William Haynes left his position as a magistrate judge to become a district court judge in 1999.  Judge Sandidge returned to work to ensure the vacant position left by Judge Haynes did not undermine the administration of justice in the Middle District of Tennessee. 

Judge Sandidge was as active in his personal life as he was in his professional life.  He was an avid sportsman who took frequent boat trips down the Colorado River and through the Grand Canyon.  He was also a talented skier.  And he was a popular member of the University Club of Nashville before it closed.

Judge Sandidge will be missed by all who knew him.  The Middle District of Tennessee will be forever grateful for his service.  

Funeral services will be set after the first of the year.