Born and raised in Shelby County, Tom Leatherwood was elected State Representative to serve the people of District 99 in 2018.

After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from the University of Memphis, Tom spent several years in the energy industry. After this, he fulfilled a life-long dream of world travel and spent 14 months backpacking to over 20 countries. Tom came back home with a greater realization and appreciation of the many freedoms and blessings we enjoy in our nation. He then earned his teaching certificate from Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro and taught at Millington Central High School for eight years.

Tom was later elected to the State Senate after defeating the sponsor of the state income tax bill. As Vice Chairman of the Education Committee and member of the Finance Ways and Means Committee he played a critical role in education policy and passing fiscally responsible state budgets. After eight years, Tom Leatherwood kept his promise to only serve two terms and did not run again for the State Senate.

Tom then served as Shelby County Register of Deeds where he implemented a new recording system, streamlined the office, cut expenses, and reduced customer fees. His office was fully funded by customer fees at no cost to the taxpayers and he turned over excess revenue each year to help the county. He also won the Society of Tennessee Archivists’ Archival Advancement Award.

Tom is honored by the privilege to serve the people of Shelby County by shaping state policy. He and his wife, Melissa, have been married for 30 years and are active members of Faith Baptist Church in Bartlett. They live in Arlington and Melissa teaches first grade for Arlington Community Schools. They are blessed with five daughters and one son-in-law.