Goodbye Mike, Hello Ordell: A Shift in Legal Leadership for Memphis!
Memphis, Tenn. โ A significant transition is underway in the legal offices of the City of Memphis! On Tuesday, city officials revealed that Mike Fletcher, the esteemed Deputy Chief Legal Officer, will be hanging up his legal boots at the end of the year. After decades of dedicated service to Memphis, Fletcherโs retirement will take effect on *December 31, 2024*. Stepping into his shoes is the capable Ordell Horton Jr., who brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm for public service.
A Fond Farewell to Mike Fletcher
Mike Fletcher has been a cornerstone in the cityโs legal framework, and his departure is creating quite a buzz around Memphis. Tannera Gibson, Chief Legal Officer for the City of Memphis, praised Fletcher as โan exemplary leader and a true champion for our city.โ Itโs clear that his knowledge and dedication will be deeply missed.
Fletcher has held his position for several decades, helping navigate complex legal waters and advocating for the needs of the city. His institutional knowledge has been invaluable, and here’s the kickerโhe’s not completely disappearing! Fletcher will still lend his expertise during his retirement, continuing to assist the city in a consultative capacity. Talk about leaving a legacy!
Introducing Ordell Horton Jr.
Ordell Horton Jr., who is stepping in as the new Deputy Chief Legal Officer, comes with a robust background that has him well-prepared for this role. Recently, he served as the General Counsel for Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), where he offered legal advice to the Board of Commissioners and the superintendent. Prior to that, Horton was the Vice President and General Counsel for Memphis Light, Gas, and Water. Oh, and letโs not forget his stint as Vice Chancellor for University Relations at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Impressive, right?
โMr. Hortonโs robust legal background and dedication to public service make him an exceptional addition to our team,โ said Gibson, expressing excitement about Hortonโs arrival. โWe are very lucky to have him, and we are confident that his leadership will enhance our efforts to protect the interests of the city and its constituents.โ
Ordellโs Vision for the Future
When asked about stepping into this new role, Horton couldnโt hide his enthusiasm. โI am honored to step into this role and carry forward the incredible work that Mike has done for our city,โ he said. Horton looks forward to collaborating with the cityโs legal team and tackling the legal challenges that lie ahead with *integrity and professionalism*. His positive attitude is sure to invigorate the team!
Community Impact
This change in leadership is more than just a shift in titles; itโs a movement that promises to continue fostering a healthy legal environment for the citizens of Memphis. With Fletcherโs extensive history of service and Hortonโs fresh perspective and expertise, residents can feel reassured that their legal interests are in capable hands.
So, as we prepare to say goodbye to Mike Fletcher and welcome Ordell Horton Jr. into this vital role, the future looks bright for the legal team serving the friendly folks of Memphis. Change can often be daunting, but it can also lead to exciting new opportunitiesโand this transition seems filled with nothing but potential!
Stay tuned as these two legal stalwarts work to uphold the values and needs of the Memphis community!

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


