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A resolution honoring the life of Elmer Denzel Irwin, owner of Nashville's Santa's Pub.
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WHEREAS, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the age of 75, a true Nashville legend was lost in the passing of Mr. Elmer Denzel Irwin, the beloved and iconic owner of Santa's Pub dive bar located in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, after retiring from a 40-year career as a painter, Mr. Irwin, opened his iconic eponymous Santa's Pub in 2011, using the nickname given to him by his 21 grandchildren. Santa's Pub is the kind of place where you're just as likely to see Ed Sheeran, Kacey Musgraves, or Jelly Roll hanging out as you are a neighbor or friend, because it's a favorite among everybody in Nashville; and
WHEREAS, Since Santa's Pub opened, Santa himself has been a familiar and constant presence behind the bar reminding patrons of the rules of his bar: "There's no cussing at Santa's. You respect women or find another bar. I'm an ole' country boy, that's the way it is;" and
WHEREAS, the uniqueness of Santa's Pub has led many artists to choose it as a location for music videos over the years. Santa's impact on Nashville and country music with his festive Christmas theme and karaoke nights made the doublewide trailer on Bransford Avenue world famous; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Elmer Denzel Irwin leaves behind a legacy of adventure, laughter, and a profound impact on those around him, and we mourn his loss; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council honor and celebrate the life of Mr. Irwin and hereby express and extend sincere sympathy to Mr. Irwin's family.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as celebrating the life of Elmer Denzel Irwin, owner of Nashville's iconic Santa's Pub and recognizing his impact on the Nashville community.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its ad...
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