Fred S. Elliott, born on December 25, 1883, dedicated his life to education and athletics in Tennessee before his death on March 9, 1961. Elliott's career as a principal spanned 39 years, from 1915 to 1954, across various schools in Shelby County, including Cuba School from 1915 to 1919, Rosemark School from 1919 to 1928, Messick High School in the year 1928-1929, and Whitehaven High School from 1929 until his retirement in 1954. During his tenure at Rosemark School, he also coached girls’ basketball in the 1920-1921 season.

His service to the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) was significant and impactful. Elliott was one of the founding members of TSSAA, emphasizing his deep commitment to high school athletics in the state. From 1930 to 1942, he held the role of Secretary/Treasurer for TSSAA, a period during which he contributed significantly to the organization's growth and success. Additionally, Elliott served as the editor of "The Tennessee High School Athlete," the official organ of TSSAA, further showcasing his commitment to high school sports.

Beyond his work with TSSAA, Elliott was a member of the State Board of Education and served as president of the West Tennessee Education Association. His contributions to high school athletics were recognized nationally when he received a Citation for Outstanding Services and Contributions to High School Athletics from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) in June 1954. Fred Elliott's dedicated service to youth and sports in Tennessee was honored posthumously with a Tennessee State Senate Resolution in March 1961, and in November 1962, the Whitehaven Fire Department dedicated a pumper and ladder truck in his name. In recognition of his incredible legacy and service, Fred S. Elliott was inducted into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2006, celebrating a career that significantly impacted Tennessee’s educational and athletic landscapes.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2006
Category: Administrator