Source: Legacy Obituaries
Former Flint Mayor James A. Sharp Jr. died this past Sunday, July 2, at Legacy House of Avondale-Avondale, Arizona. He was 90 years old. Funeral arrangements are incomplete. A service will take place in Flint, and his final resting place will be Arlington National Cemetery.
Former Mayor Sharp was Flint’s first popularly elected African American mayor under the “strong mayor” form of government established by the 1974 Flint City Charter. He served as mayor from 1983-1987.
Sharp was a former marine. During his military service, he served with Fox 2/7 in Korea and in Vietnam. He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in Vietnam and three Navy Commendation Medals, all with the combat “V” for “Valor” during battles in Korea and Vietnam.
Sharp also served as chief of staff for then-Michigan State Representative Don Riegle from 1971-1983, managing constituent services for six offices in Michigan.
Based on successes noted during his administration, including his role in the creation of the Bishop International Airport Authority, the Bishop Airport Commission dedicated the Mayor James A. Sharp, Jr. Conference Room at Bishop Airport in his honor.
Following his mayorship, Sharp served as vice president of Governmental Relations for City Management Corporation.
Additionally, he was appointed by two governors to the Oakland University Board of Trustees, where he served as board chair from 1992-1994. He and his wife, Tessie Baltrip Sharp, also established a scholarship to benefit students studying abroad.
“It’s important to uplift the heroes of our community, especially those trailblazers who paved the way for future leaders,” Mayor Sheldon Neeley said. “Former Mayor Sharp was a true community champion in many ways, both as a mayor of the city of Flint and also as one of the lead role models in the African American community during his tenure. His impact as mayor is still felt today. As a young man, I remember then-Mayor Sharp supporting a group of college students I was a part of, organizing anti-drug rallies in the community. I ask our community to join me in lifting his family in prayer.”
Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-08) issued the following statement after the passing of the former Flint Mayor James A. Sharp Jr.:
“Mayor Sharp was a relentless advocate for the people of Flint. By always putting the community first, he championed a pivotal chapter in this city’s history. I learned many lessons by watching him lead a movement to make Flint a better place to live, work and raise a family.
“I consider myself lucky to have known him as an ally and a friend. Jennifer and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Sharp family.”
Sharp is survived by his wife. He was preceded in death by two sons. He leaves behind two daughters. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.
