Today, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced that Senior Advisor John DeBerry will step away from his role to pursue a new venture after six years of leadership in Governor Lee’s cabinet and a distinguished tenure in the executive and legislative branches of state government, effective today, February 12.

“Since my first term, John DeBerry has served as a trusted advisor and steady voice of wisdom,” said Gov. Lee. “He is a man of faith who leads with conviction and has devoted his life to serving the people of Tennessee with excellence. Maria and I are deeply grateful for his friendship and service, and we pray God’s richest blessings over John and his family in the days ahead.”

DeBerry has served as a trusted advisor to the Governor since the early days of the Lee Administration, using his decades of experience in public policy to provide guidance on education, criminal justice reform, and faith-based initiatives. DeBerry played a key role in advancing the Memphis Safe Task Force, creating generational change and opportunity for Memphians.

“It has been the highlight of my career to serve Tennesseans as a member of Governor Lee’s Cabinet, said DeBerry. “The Governor is not just a public servant, but a man of faith, and it’s been an honor and a blessing to serve Tennessee in this way. The State is better because of his service, and I’m grateful to Governor Lee for his trust in me to help guide our great state these past years.”

Prior to joining the Lee Administration, DeBerry represented the 90th House District of Tennessee from 1995 to 2020, serving in thirteen General Assemblies. His tenure was marked by influential leadership, and DeBerry served on numerous education, finance, health, and judiciary committees. In addition to his service in the legislative branch, DeBerry has served several gubernatorial commissions and advisory bodies, including the Juvenile Justice Reform Commission and the Task Force on Sentencing and Recidivism. He has also been active nationally in education and workforce policy.

A graduate of Freed-Hardeman University and the University of Memphis, DeBerry preaches at the Coleman Avenue Church of Christ in Memphis, in addition to speaking at churches and organizations across the country. He serves on the Board of Trustees of Freed-Hardeman University and remains active in civic and community organizations.