James E. Aldredge, whose life was dedicated to improving Fresno, particularly for southwest residents, died peacefully at home Oct. 17, surrounded by loved ones, his family said.

Mr. Aldredge offered his attitude about life and the responsibilities of citizenship in 2009 at his induction onto the State Center Community College District’s Wall of Honor at the African American Historical and Cultural Museum.

“It’s mandatory for all citizens to try to better their community,” he said at the time.

He lived by that principle in a life marked by overcoming adversity and breaking barriers for Black residents, immigrants, and others in Fresno’s 93706 zip code. He often stressed that education was the key to prosperity and could point to his own experience as proof.

After serving multiple stints as Fresno’s interim city manager, he became the first Black permanent city manager in 1985.

Major League Dream Cut Short

Born in Gilmer, Texas, Mr. Aldredge’s family moved to Fresno when he was four years old. A star athlete at Edison High School, he signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates at the age of 17. Despite competing in the California League, where the average age was 22, he batted .284, drove in 94 runs, scored 91 runs, and stole 20 bases in a performance signaling future greatness in 1957.

However, Mr. Aldredge’s dream of reaching the big leagues ended the next season while playing for the Pirates’ affiliate in Lincoln, Nebraska. Hit in the left eye by a thrown ball, he would go on to lose the eye and retire the following season.

Mr. Aldredge didn’t let that setback define him. Returning home, he graduated from Fresno City College and Fresno State while working for the city of Fresno. Unwilling to throttle back his work ethic, Mr. Aldredge taught at Fresno City College, the University of San Francisco, and Fresno State. Eventually, he would earn a Masters and Ph.D in Organizational Development at USC, and study at Oxford.

Commitment to Fresno

After retiring as city manager in 1989, Mr. Aldredge dedicated himself to education and community service. He served Fresno Unified, Fresno City College, Fresno Pacific University, and Fresno State in various capacities.

Mr. Aldredge also served as a board member for Saint Agnes Hospital, Kings View Behavioral Health, and CEN-CAL Business Finance Group.

Among his proudest accomplishments was creating a foundation that grew to $1 million in assets to support students, athletes, and social services. Family members also noted his receipt of the B’nai B’rith Award for his lifelong fight for justice and equity.

An Eye for Detail and a Sense of Humor

Commenters to Mr. Aldredge’s obituary page noted his insight, passion for making Fresno a better place, and sense of humor.

“Jim was extremely helpful to me when I joined the Fresno State community. His keen insight and commitment to making things better for the community was extraordinary and stimulated me to do as much as possible to make Fresno a better place for everyone,” said former Fresno State President John Welty.

Jerry Bier, a retired City Hall reporter for The Fresno Bee, said: “Jim was one of the smartest men I’ve known—and also one of the funniest!”

Connie Cha, a former student, wrote: “I had the privilege of being one of Dr. James Aldredge´s students in the Master’s Program at Fresno State. He offered me unwavering guidance and support, and he believed in me even when I doubted myself. When I completed my degree, he told me that I was now ‘Certified Smart’ and encouraged me to go out into the world, embrace my leadership potential, and make a positive difference.”

Retired Fresno Police Capt. Al Maroney added: “Thank you for pushing me to achieve during my tenure as a police officer. Your leadership, insight and inspiration helped to make me a better person.”

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the James E. Aldredge Foundation, his family said.

Mr. Aldredge was preceded in death by his wife, Daisy Rae, and his brother, John Aldredge.