Retired District Attorney Bill Whitesell Reflects on Career, Child Advocacy Center Founding
Bill Whitesell’s path toward a career in law began long before he realized it. Growing up in Lewisburg, Tennessee, Saturday mornings often found him in the local courthouse, captivated by the lawyers and the rhythm of the courtroom. “I never dreamed I could become a lawyer,” he said. Still, the seeds were planted early.
After enrolling at the University of Tennessee–Knoxville as a business major, Whitesell eventually shifted his focus, took the LSAT “on a whim,” and was accepted into Memphis State University School of Law in 1972. Determined to succeed, he immersed himself fully in his studies, earning strong grades, a spot on Law Review, and passing the bar in 1975.
Whitesell began his legal career in Memphis before noticing a job posting that brought him to Murfreesboro. After three years in private practice, he joined the District Attorney’s Office in 1980 under District Attorney Guy Dotson, whom Whitesell credits for shaping his skills as a prosecutor. “I learned all I know about prosecution from Guy,” he said.
During his 34 years with the DA’s office, including 19 years as District Attorney, Whitesell tried hundreds of major cases, including murders, rapes, and armed robberies. He emphasized professionalism, respect, and fairness in every courtroom interaction. “My job wasn’t to convict people. My job was to see that justice was done,” he said. He believed deeply in humility before a jury, teamwork with law enforcement, and protecting the integrity of each trial.
Victims’ rights became a major focus during his tenure. Whitesell made it a priority to meet with victims personally, listen to them, and ensure they understood the process. “Sometimes they just needed five minutes to be heard,” he said.
Championing the Child Advocacy Center
In 2000, Whitesell learned about the emerging model of child advocacy centers in Tennessee. He immediately recognized the need for one in Rutherford County, a place where abused children could safely tell their stories without being retraumatized.
That same year, the Child Advocacy Center of Rutherford County (CAC) was founded. Whitesell has served on its board for 25 years, calling the effort his “baby.” Founding Executive Director Sharon De Boer was hired with early pooled resources, and the CAC began serving local families through forensic interviews, advocacy, and prevention programs.
Since opening, the CAC has assisted more than 50,000 individuals, including 21,000 children. Professional forensic interviews conducted at the center have significantly strengthened child abuse and child sexual abuse prosecutions in Rutherford and Cannon Counties. “It is a real game changer,” Whitesell said.
Space has long been a challenge. Staff have worked from donated or temporary locations for years. Today, the CAC is actively searching for a permanent home to support its growing team. Whitesell firmly believes the community will make it happen. “I really think God has a hand in this,” he said. “It is time, and it is the right thing to do.”
Family and Legacy
Whitesell and his wife, Lucy, a retired Clerk and Master of the Rutherford County Chancery Court, raised two children, Emily and Aaron, and now enjoy three grandchildren. Throughout his demanding career, Lucy was his steady support. “Sometimes her support was telling me to calm down,” he joked.
Even in retirement, Whitesell continues to pour his energy into the Child Advocacy Center, staying committed to the mission of protecting children and seeking justice.
For more information, visit cacrutherford.org.
