Singer, Songwriter, Statesman, Speaker Author
About Terri Lynn Weaver
Singer/Songwriter
I traveled the nation for over 30 years in the music industry as an award-winning singer/songwriter. I achieved recognition, such as the 1993 Country Gospel Music Female Vocalist of the Year Award and won my first #1 song, "Mama Prays", I found contentment in making and playing music for any audience willing to listen.
Then came the tragic events of 9/11, which changed the music industry as we knew it. I recall my husband Mike, saying, "Honey, we couldn't book a date even if we paid them to come." Touring would take time to return to normal. In the meantime, being at home in Smith County, Tennessee was a welcome change. It opened up opportunities to build relationships within our community. In a few years, our son would marry, and they would bless us with our first grandson.
Statesman
It wasn't long after my grandson was born, a respected local leader asked if I had ever considered running for a political office. My immediate response was "Absolutely not". I love my country, get teary-eyed singing the National Anthem, and wonder about the world my grandchildren will grow up in, but seeking a political seat had never crossed my mind. The question prompted me to pray about such an assignment, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The next 16 years were dedicated to serving the "Folks of the Fortieth" in the State House of Tennessee. It was an opportunity I am grateful to God for, and to those who trusted me to represent them for seven terms from 2008 through 2022.
Author
Working to add another accomplishment to my resume, I have begun the lengthy process of writing a book about my father and his family who fled communism in Yugoslavia during WWII. This story has been developing within me for quite some time. Now, at this stage in my life, I can take my pen, my paper, my words and my willingness to create this story with a theme that connects faith, family and freedom.