Frank Trew, Donelson community leader, dies

Frank Trew, community leader and founder of Hip Donelson, has died.

He was 55.

Trew was president of the Hip Donelson neighborhood group. Metro Nashville police confirmed he died Tuesday night.

"Our family is shocked and deeply saddened, as are, clearly, his many friends and admirers in the Donelson community and beyond," Glen Trew, one of his three brothers, posted on the page Tuesday.

"Frank invested so much of his life into making Donelson "Hip", reading the thoughtful comments on this page from those who admired and appreciated his work offers us some comfort."

Nashville Mayor Megan Barry also expressed condolences.

"I am so sad to learn the tragic news that community leader Frank Trew has died." Barry said in a statement Tuesday.

"Frank was my friend and a dedicated public servant who volunteered his time and energy towards the betterment of his neighbors and community," Barry said.

Trew served six years with the Metro Human Relations Commission, two of them as chair.

"Frank wasn't just committed to the cause, he was our greatest cheerleader," the commission's executive Director, Melody Fowler-Green said.

"Frank made everyone feel heard, valued, and supported. At once kindhearted and brave, Frank was not afraid to engage in hard conversations about equality — not only for the LBGTQ community he called home, but for all people. Knowing how many people he impacted through the MHRC, Hip Donelson, the Donelson Farmers Market, and the many other boards and commissions on which he served, his loss will be felt all over Nashville."

Metro Council member Jeff Syracuse, who represents District 15 which includes Donelson, said Trew loved and worked tirelessly for the Nashville community.

"Please hold your loved ones close," he said in a statement Tuesday. "Donelson is stronger and better because of Frank. Please hold our community close to your heart tonight."

Reach Natalie Alund at nalund@tennessean.com and follow her on Twitter @nataliealund.