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The Student News Site of Middle Tennessee State University

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The Student News Site of Middle Tennessee State University

MTSU Sidelines
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Social media reactions to MTSU first lady’s death

Jaeda Jackson, Social media manager • January 9, 2026
Ephraim Rodenbach
MTSU president’s house on Jan. 9, 2025.

Editor’s note: This is a breaking story. Updates will come as new information is released.

MTSU announced first lady Elizabeth McPhee’s death on Thursday at the age of 72. McPhee held the title of first lady for 25 years.

Since the announcement, there has been a stream of reactions and memorials in her honor from the Murfreesboro, Tennessee, community on social media.

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Demos, a locally owned restaurant chain, posted a statement on their Instagram account extending their sympathies to the McPhee family.

“She was a true champion for children and for MTSU and our extended community,” the post said. 

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To contact the news editor, email [email protected].

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About the Contributors
Jaeda Jackson
Jaeda Jackson, Social Media Manager
I am a Sophomore working on a Social Justice Journalism degree with minors in Political Science and University Honors. When I’m not working with Sidelines, you can find me working at my internship as a photographer with the hockey team! A fun fact about me is that I am the mom to 3 beautiful houseplants.
Ephraim Rodenbach
Ephraim Rodenbach, Co-Sports Editor
I am a junior graduating in fall 2027 with a degree in sports journalism with a double minor in mass communication and sports management. I’m the biggest Diego Pavia fan you’ll ever meet and an extremely passionate Nashville Predators fan. During my free time, I enjoy taking pictures, cooking, working out and hiking!
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Social media reactions to MTSU first lady’s death