Memphis Remembers W.J. Michael Cody: A Legacy of Justice and Community Service

Memphis Mourns the Loss of W.J. Michael Cody

Memphis, Tenn. – The city of Memphis is in mourning following the passing of W.J. Michael Cody, a distinguished attorney and a beloved member of the community. Cody, who bravely battled Parkinson’s Disease, passed away on Sunday at the remarkable age of 88. His life was a rich tapestry of achievements both inside and outside the courtroom, and he leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.

A Life Dedicated to Justice

Mike Cody’s journey began in 1961 when he joined the Burch, Porter and Johnson law firm located in the heart of Downtown Memphis. Anyone who knew him would tell you that he had an unshakeable commitment to justice. Notably, he represented the iconic Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during a pivotal time in history. Dr. King was tragically assassinated in Memphis on April 4, 1968, making the moments Cody spent with the civil rights leader all the more significant.

Public Service in Multiple Roles

Mike Cody’s contributions were not limited to his legal work. He also served on the Memphis City Council and held the esteemed position of U.S. Attorney for West Tennessee from 1977 to 1981. His role as the Tennessee Attorney General from 1984 to 1988 further solidified his commitment to protecting the rights of Tennesseans. He took this public service seriously and believed deeply in the principles of equality and justice.

A Passion for Running and Community

Outside of his legal and political endeavors, Cody was also an enthusiastic runner. He not only participated in the Boston Marathon but also ran in various races throughout the Mid-South, always displaying his love for the sport and the community. He even helped establish the Breakaway Running store in Memphis, providing a space for fellow running enthusiasts to come together and share their passion.

Legal Expertise and Ethics

Cody’s legal career was truly impressive. He focused primarily on mediation and arbitration of complex commercial disputes, and he worked extensively in commercial litigation, internal investigations, and regulatory matters. His expertise allowed him to represent major corporations across the United States, and he was often involved in critical matters before state attorneys general and regulatory agencies.

His dedication to ethics in the legal profession did not go unnoticed—Cody was appointed in 2005 as Co-Chair of the Tennessee Commission on Ethics tasked with revising state ethics laws. In 2010, he took on the role of co-chair for the Society of Attorneys General Emeritus (SAGE), becoming only the second co-chair in the organization’s history.

A Lasting Impact

The influence Cody had on the community extended beyond legal matters. In 2018, he was a featured panelist at the National Civil Rights Museum during an event commemorating the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination. There, he joined in the important discussions surrounding the pressing question posed in King’s last book: “Where do we go from here? Chaos or Community?” His insights reflected a lifetime of seeking truth and equality.

As we remember W.J. Michael Cody, it’s clear that his life was an example of what it means to be a true public servant. Although no memorial services will be held, his legacy of justice, community involvement, and ethical leadership will resonate throughout Tennessee and beyond for years to come.