MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Former Memphis City Council member Janet Hooks died Tuesday, Oct. 10, according to a source close to her.
A news release announced Hooks’ death early Wednesday morning. Hooks, 70, served 16 years on the Memphis City Council. She then worked as the parks and neighborhoods director under the administrations of former Memphis mayors Myron Lowery and Mayor AC Wharton.
In 2023, the Shelby County Commission appointed her as special advisor to the Shelby County Clerk.
Hooks is survived by her husband Michael, former Shelby County Commission Chair and County Assessor, daughter, two sons, daughter-in-law, two granddaughters, and special second daughter.
Memorial details will be shared in the upcoming days.
Mayor Jim Strickland released the following statement on Hooks' passing:
"Memphis has lost one of our most dedicated public servants- former Memphis City Councilwoman Janet Hooks. Janet's memory will forever be in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Please keep the Hooks family in your thoughts and prayers."
“Janet was beloved by her family, friends, and community,” the family said in the news release. “She was a skilled cook and avid reader.”
Congressman Steve Cohen released this statement:
“I met Janet Hooks when she was dating my fellow Tennessee Constitutional Convention delegate Michael Hooks in 1977 and I attended their Mud Island wedding. In her roles as a member of the City Council and as an advisor to Memphis Mayors Myron Lowery and A C Wharton, she served the city well. Beautiful and friendly, she was a devoted spouse and was dedicated to her family. Hers was a life well lived.”
Tennessee Senate minority leader Sen. Raumesh Akbari said in a statement:
“Janet Hooks was an exemplary public servant, whose unwavering dedication to Memphis and support for those working to better the lives of our people made her a true beacon of community service. She left a great legacy that I hope inspires us all.”
Memphis City Council member Patrice Robinson said:
“I, Councilwoman Patrice J. Robinson, extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of former Councilwoman Janet Hooks. Janet was a dedicated public servant who left an indelible mark on our city's history with her unwavering commitment to the betterment of Memphis and tireless advocacy for her community's needs. She epitomized leadership, integrity, and compassion throughout her time on the Memphis City Council and in various other roles. Her contributions to our communities were immeasurable, and her presence will be tremendously missed. As we gather to remember and celebrate Janet Hooks’ remarkable life, we must also acknowledge her profound impact on our city. Memphis has lost a true champion, and her memory will forever be cherished. In this time of grief, my thoughts and prayers are with her family, and I join our city in mourning the loss of such a phenomenal woman.”
The Memphis City Council released the following statement:
"The Memphis City Council extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of former Councilwoman Janet Hooks. She was highly esteemed for her steadfast dedication and extensive period of service to the city of Memphis, which garnered her great respect and admiration. We are eternally grateful for her 16 years of service on the Memphis City Council in District 4. She exemplified leadership, virtue, and grace throughout her tenure on the Memphis City Council and in various other capacities. Her contributions to our communities were invaluable, and her absence will be deeply felt. As we convene to commemorate and honor the extraordinary life of Janet Hooks, we must also recognize her significant influence on our city. Memphis has lost a genuine advocate, and her legacy will be forever treasured. During this period of mourning, our sentiments and supplications are with her family, and the Memphis City Council joins our city in lamenting the passing of such an exceptional woman."