Lifestyle  Rural Lifestyle

Meet Willis Jepson, the 2026 Tennessee Farmer of the Year!

The seventh-generation farmer reflects on more than 200 years of family farming and the future of Jepson Family Farms.

July 14, 2026 03:45 PM • 
Neal Burnette-Irwin

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD News) — Seventh-generation farmer Willis Jepson of Jepson Family Farms has been named Tennessee’s 2026 Farmer of the Year.

Jepson joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the honor and the family legacy that dates back more than 200 years. He said continuing that legacy means honoring the generations before him while making decisions that will keep the farm strong for those who follow.

In his conversation with RFD News, Jepson discussed the importance of diversification, saying the operation has expanded to include watermelons and pumpkins alongside its traditional crops. He also highlighted conservation practices like no-till farming and cover crops to help protect the land.

Jepson also emphasized the importance of developing future leaders, and that preparing the next generation to take on leadership roles is just as important as managing the land.

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Neal Burnette-Irwin
Neal Burnette-Irwin
Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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