Randy Primas facts for kids

Melvin Randolph "Randy" Primas, Jr. (August 31, 1949 – March 1, 2012) was an American politician. He made history as the first African-American Mayor of Camden, New Jersey. He served in this important role from 1981 to 1990.

Randy Primas's Life and Career

Early Life and Education

Randy Primas grew up in Camden, New Jersey. His family was well-known in the city. He went to Howard University in Washington, D.C., and earned his college degree in 1971.

After college, Primas returned to Camden. He joined a group called the Black People's Unity Movement. Before becoming mayor, he helped lead economic development programs for this group.

Becoming Mayor of Camden

Primas started his political journey at a young age. He was elected to the Camden City Council when he was only 23 years old. He quickly became the council's president.

In 1981, Primas won the election to become the Mayor of Camden. He was 31 years old at the time. This was a big moment because he became the first African-American mayor in the city's history.

Serving as Mayor

Randy Primas was elected mayor three times in a row. He served the city until 1990. During his time as mayor, he supported several projects to improve the city. These projects included building new areas, like the Riverfront State Prison. Some people in the community did not agree with all of these projects.

State Government Role

In 1990, Primas left his role as mayor. The Governor of New Jersey, Jim Florio, appointed him to a new position. Primas became the Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. In this job, he helped communities across the state.

Later Public Service

From 1993 to 1999, Primas served as a trustee for Rowan University. A trustee helps guide the university's decisions. In the early 2000s, he also worked as an executive for Commerce Capital Markets.

In 2002, Primas was appointed as the first chief operating officer (COO) of Camden. A COO helps manage the daily operations of an organization. He retired from this position in 2006.

Final Years and Legacy

After retiring, Randy Primas moved to Fort Mill, South Carolina. He later became ill with bone-marrow cancer. He passed away on March 1, 2012, at the age of 62, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Randy Primas was survived by his wife, Bonita, and his two sons, Melvin III and Craig. Many important political figures from Camden and New Jersey attended his funeral. The Mayor of Camden, Dana Redd, ordered all city flags to fly at half-staff to honor him.