James A. Sharp Jr. facts for kids

James A. Sharp Jr. (born May 28, 1933 – died July 2, 2023) was an American politician. He served as the mayor of Flint, Michigan. He was the second mayor to have strong powers under Flint's city rules, which were set up in 1974.

His Time as Mayor

James A. Sharp Jr. became the mayor of Flint, Michigan, in 1983. He won the election against the previous mayor, James W. Rutherford. This made Mr. Sharp the first African American mayor of Flint to be chosen by the people in an election.

Before him, Floyd J. McCree was the first African American mayor of Flint. However, Mr. McCree was chosen by a city group, not by a public vote.

In 1984, Mr. Sharp also served as an alternate delegate. This meant he helped represent Michigan at a big meeting for the Democratic Party. He served as mayor until 1987. In that year, Matthew S. Collier won the next election for mayor.

His Later Years

James A. Sharp Jr. passed away on July 2, 2023. He was 90 years old.