Henry Espy facts for kids

Henry Espy is an important leader who served as the Mayor of Clarksdale, Mississippi. He was the mayor until 2013. Henry Espy comes from a family of public servants. His brother, Mike Espy, was a U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. His son, Chuck Espy, is a Mississippi state Representative and is currently the mayor of Clarksdale.

Early Life and Family

Henry Espy was born to Henry Espy, Sr. and Willie Jean Huddleston. His family lived in Yazoo City. Henry Espy's grandfather, T. J. Huddleston, Sr., was a very important person in their community. He started the first hospital in Yazoo City specifically for African Americans. This hospital helped many people get the medical care they needed.

A Leader in Public Service

Henry Espy made history in Clarksdale, Mississippi. He was the first African American to be chosen for the school board. The school board helps make decisions about local schools. Later, he became the first African American to serve as a city commissioner. A city commissioner helps run the city's daily operations.

Even more notably, Henry Espy became the first African American mayor of Clarksdale. As mayor, he was the top leader of the city. He also served as the President of the US Conference of Black Mayors. This is a group where mayors from across the country work together.

Family Business and Legacy

Beyond his public service, Henry Espy is also a businessman. He is the President of Century Funeral Home and Burial Association. This family business has locations in Clarksdale and Yazoo City. His grandfather, T. J. Huddleston, Sr., first started this funeral home.

Henry Espy's son, Henry "Chuck" Espy, III, has followed in his father's footsteps. Chuck Espy served in the Mississippi State Legislature. He represented the 26th District until 2016. Since 2017, Chuck Espy has been the current mayor of Clarksdale. This shows a strong family tradition of serving the community.