Nashville, TN, August 14, 2025
News Summary
J. Randall Wyatt Jr., the longest-serving criminal court judge in Nashville history, has passed away at 87. Known for his fairness and compassion in the courtroom, Wyatt leaves behind a legacy of public service and dedication to the community. He served as a judge for 43 years, impacting many lives during his tenure. Friends and family will hold a visitation and funeral to honor his life, and donations to the Alzheimer’s Association are requested in his memory.
Nashville, TN – The Honorable J. Randall Wyatt Jr., the longest-serving criminal court judge in Nashville history, passed away at his home on August 11, 2025, at the age of 87. He was surrounded by his family during his final moments, which included his five children and 13 grandchildren.
Wyatt’s death comes nearly three years after the loss of his wife, Karolyn “Kay” Kohl Wyatt, who passed away in February 2022. He was also predeceased by his parents, James Wyatt and Clyde Kiningham, and his brother, Mark Wyatt.
He is survived by his children: Angie Monger, Jim Wyatt, Laura O’Loughlin, Lisa Wyatt, and Vince Wyatt. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren, including Grace Teller, Robert Monger, Rhett Wyatt, and others, along with his sister, Lynda Mayo.
Wyatt’s remarkable judicial career spanned 43 years, culminating in his retirement from the bench in 2017 after an impactful 35 years as a criminal court judge. He will be remembered for his patient, fair, and compassionate treatment of those who appeared before him, earning respect from attorneys and defendants alike.
Born on December 9, 1937, to a family deeply rooted in Nashville, Wyatt’s journey began at Father Ryan High School, from which he graduated in 1955. Following high school, he served diligently in the United States Marine Corps for four years, including an 18-month stint stationed in Japan. He honorably discharged as a Sergeant in 1959 before returning to Nashville.
Upon his return, Wyatt’s dedication to public service led him to work with the Nashville Police Department as a police officer for seven years while attending Middle Tennessee State College and later earning his law degree from Vanderbilt University Law School. His commitment to law enforcement continued when he worked as a special agent for the FBI for nearly three years, primarily serving in Minneapolis and Detroit.
Wyatt transitioned back to Nashville where he served as an assistant district attorney and legal advisor for the Nashville Police Department. He was then elected to the General Sessions Court and eventually became a judge in Davidson County. Throughout his judicial tenure, he served multiple terms as Presiding Judge and was instrumental in the Nashville Bar Association, receiving the esteemed Jack Norman Sr. Award in 2005 for his excellence in criminal law.
His unwavering commitment to legal education was evident in his role as a faculty member at Aquinas College from 1969 to 1992, where he taught Criminal Law and Evidence.
Wyatt’s influence extended beyond the courtroom; he actively participated in his community as a long-time parishioner at St. Henry Catholic Church. His passion for sports also complemented his life; he was a dedicated fan of Vanderbilt athletics, an original PSL holder for the Tennessee Titans, and an avid follower of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
In his personal life, Wyatt enjoyed horse racing, jazz music, and collecting bobbleheads. He had a deep appreciation for people, consistently striving to forge personal connections and share kindness through every interaction.
Friends and family continued to celebrate his life and express gratitude for the impact he made during his final days. A visitation will be held at St. Henry’s Catholic Church on Sunday from 4-6 p.m., with a funeral mass scheduled for noon on Monday. In honor of his life, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in lieu of flowers.
FAQ
Who was J. Randall Wyatt Jr.?
J. Randall Wyatt Jr. was the longest-serving criminal court judge in Nashville history, known for his fair and compassionate treatment of courtroom attendees.
When did he pass away?
He passed away on August 11, 2025, at his home in Nashville.
What was his judicial career history?
Wyatt’s judicial career spanned 43 years, including 35 years as a criminal court judge, after retiring in 2017.
What contributions did he make to his community?
Wyatt served on the Board of Directors of the Nashville Bar Association, was a faculty member at Aquinas College, and contributed to the Nashville Police Department as an assistant district attorney.
What are the funeral arrangements?
Visitation will be held on Sunday from 4-6 p.m. at St. Henry’s Catholic Church, and a funeral mass will be held there at noon on Monday.
How many children did he have?
Randall Wyatt is survived by five children and 13 grandchildren.
Key Features of J. Randall Wyatt Jr.’s Life and Career
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 9, 1937 |
| Date of Passing | August 11, 2025 |
| Judicial Career Duration | 43 years |
| Years as Criminal Court Judge | 35 years |
| Education | Father Ryan High School, Middle Tennessee State College, Vanderbilt University Law School |
| Military Service | United States Marine Corps |
| Family | 5 children, 13 grandchildren, and 1 sister |
| Community Service | Nashville Bar Association, Aquinas College faculty |
| Funeral Arrangements | Visitation on Sunday 4-6 p.m., Funeral mass on Monday noon at St. Henry’s |
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Additional Resources
- WSMV: Longest-Serving Criminal Court Judge in Nashville History Has Died
- Tennessean: Nashville Judge Randall Wyatt Death
- Dignity Memorial: James Wyatt Obituary
- Tennessean: Longtime Nashville Judge Randall Wyatt to Retire
- Harpeth Hills: Timothy Duane Fox Obituary
- Wikipedia: J. Randall Wyatt Jr.
- Google Search: Judge Randall Wyatt
- Google Scholar: J. Randall Wyatt Nashville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Randal Wyatt
- Google News: Judge Randall Wyatt
Author: HERE Nashville
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