Judge John Turnbull Resigns Due to Health Reasons

Circuit Judge John Turnbull of Livingston, one of several judges in the 13th Judicial District who represent DeKalb County, is resigning due to health reasons.
The Herald-Citizen of Cookeville reports that Judge Turnbull nas notified Governor Phil Bredesen in an April 8th letter that he is resigning, effective June 15th. After that date, the governor will appoint a replacement to the position until the next regular election, which is next year.
Judge Turnbull has been on disability status since last October due to a ruptured disc in his neck and back surgery. Turnbull’s daughter, Livingston attorney Amy V. Hollars, was appointed by Governor Bredesen as special temporary judge last fall to fill in during her father’s absence. She continues to hold the position and is expected to be a candidate for the appointment.
Turnbill has served the 13th Judicial District since 1989 and his current term runs until 2014. He was first appointed to the judgeship in August 1989, replacing Judge Tom Haile. In 1990, he ran and was elected, then was re-elected in 1998 and 2006.
The 13th Judicial District is comprised of DeKalb, Putnam, Overton, White, Clay, Pickett, and Cumberland counties.