Murfreesboro Says Farewell to Retired Police Chief Fred N. Dansby

News Summary

The community of Murfreesboro, TN honors the life of Chief Fred N. Dansby, who passed away at 93. His remarkable contributions to law enforcement and education left a lasting impact.

Murfreesboro Says Farewell to Retired Police Chief Fred N. Dansby

It is with heartfelt sadness that the community of Murfreesboro, TN mourns the passing of a beloved figure, Frederick N. Dansby, who left us on April 20, 2025, at the age of 93. Fred peacefully passed away at National Healthcare, where he had spent his final days surrounded by kind and caring staff.

A Life Dedicated to Service

Fred was a man of many passions and accomplishments. Born in Detroit, MI, he later moved to Tennessee in 2003, bringing with him decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge. Before settling in the beautiful surroundings of Murfreesboro, he lived in Northville, MI, where he planted roots with his family.

After proudly serving in the U.S. Marines during the Korean conflict from 1952 to 1954, Fred returned to Michigan and embarked on a remarkable 40-year career in law enforcement. He made his mark with the Garden City Police Force before taking on the role of Chief of Police in Westland, MI, a position he held for an impressive 20 years. He also served as Director of Public Safety in Romulus, MI, showcasing his commitment to keeping communities safe.

His dedication to education was evident when he pursued and achieved a Doctor of Education degree from Wayne State University at the remarkable age of 62, proving that it’s never too late to learn and grow.

Community Engagement and Hobbies

After hanging up his badge, Fred transitioned to teaching at Baker College in Royal Oaks, MI, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation. However, his zest for life was not limited to work. Fred was an avid long-distance runner, a regular at the local “Y,” and he particularly enjoyed water exercise, finding joy in both physical fitness and community engagement.

Family meant everything to Fred. He cherished planning mystery trips for his grandchildren, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and discovery. His furry companion, a lovable dog named Nikki, was always by his side, providing comfort and companionship.

Fred was also deeply involved in the community, actively participating in the Masonic Lodge, the Exchange Club of Rutherford County, and the Westland Fire and Police Retirees Association. His faith was important to him as well, and he was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Murfreesboro.

Survived by Loved Ones

Fred leaves behind a loving family, including his devoted wife, Linda Dansby. He is survived by daughters Sharon Chess of Ferndale, MI, Lisa Ingram of Westland, MI, and Carol Tavormina, married to Jerry Tavormina of Walworth, NY. Additionally, he is remembered by his sister Lois Lovelace of Plymouth, MI, and stepchildren Jeff Coplai of Milwaukee, WI, and Karen Dixon of Estill Springs, TN. He was a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren and a great-grandfather to 22 great-grandchildren.

A Final Farewell

The community is invited to say their goodbyes during the visitation scheduled for 4:00 to 7:00 pm on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Santieu Funeral Home in Garden City, MI. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am on Friday, May 2, 2025, with burial at Glen Eden Lutheran Memorial Park in Livonia, MI.

In celebration of his life, a special gathering will be held in Murfreesboro at a later date to honor the memory of this remarkable man. In lieu of flowers, the family has kindly requested donations to be made to Hadley Vision Resources for Macular Degeneration programs and the First United Methodist Church, Debt Retirement Fund.

A guestbook for the Dansby family is available online, where family and friends can share their thoughts and condolences. Fred N. Dansby will be remembered fondly, not just for his years of dedicated service, but also for the love and joy he brought to those around him.

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