The town of Mathiston has scheduled a special election to fill the unexpired term of an alderman who died last week.
Alderman James “Jim” McMinn, 84, died Oct. 16. A private family graveside service for the Water Valley native was held at that city’s Jumper’s Chapel Cemetery and a memorial service was held at Mathiston Baptist Church on Thursday. The town of Mathiston lowered the American flag to half-staff in his honor.
McMinn began his second term as a Mathiston alderman in July 2021. He previously served on Water Valley’s Board of Aldermen and had a lifelong career in the construction industry before retirement in 2011, according to his obituary.
“Mr. Jim did more work during his retirement than most did at their jobs,” Mathiston Alderman Lavelle McAlpin wrote in a social media post with a photo of McMinn’s empty seat in the Town Hall boardroom.
“He was an excellent board member — conscientious and dedicated,” McAlpin added. “He loved to help people and many were those who benefited from his great generosity. … Rest In Peace, Mr. Jim. You were a true and faithful servant. We will miss you and your seat will never truly be filled.”
The Mathiston Board of Aldermen has a set a special election for Dec. 6 to fill the vacancy created by the death of McMinn because he had more than six months left in his four-year term. Candidates have until 4 p.m. Nov. 16. to qualify in the city clerk’s office.
