Gov. Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Former State Representative James McBryde 

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to remain lowered at half-staff on Monday, January 6, 2025 to honor and remember former State Representative James “Jim” McBryde. 

“Representative James McBryde was dedicated to serving his community over decades of public service,” said Governor Whitmer. “A champion forMiddle Michigan, he advocated for legislation and investments that made a real difference in people’s lives and grew the local economy. His passion for people and his commitment to his community left a lasting impact. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and those who worked with and served alongside him.”   

Former State Representative McBryde was born in Santa Monica, California, and moved to Michigan when he was 11, where he graduated from East Grand Rapids High School. He pursued higher education at Central Michigan University, where he studied political science. McBryde began his career in the family shoe business and was a sales and marketing representative.  

Former State Representative McBryde’s journey in public service began with his election to the Isabella County Commission in 1984. He continued his career of public service when he was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1990. McBryde served two terms representing the 99th district where he was a member of the House Appropriations Committee as chair of the State Police and Military Affairs Subcommittee and vice chair of the Higher Education Subcommittee. After serving in the Michigan House of Representatives, McBryde became the vice president of Governmental Affairs for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. In 2015, he became the president and CEO of the Middle Michigan Development Corporation. 

Former State Representative McBryde is survived by his wife, Kim; his four daughters, Sarah McBryde, Natalie McBryde, Elizabeth (Jordan Whalen) McBryde, and Rebecca (Beau) Arlt; granddaughter, Ashtyn Mae Arlt, and a grandson expected in March 2025; siblings, Roxanne McBryde, Robyn (John) Ciccone, Scott (Elizabeth Ford) McBryde, Dan (Sylvie) McBryde; and many nieces and nephews. 

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and service of former State Representative James McBryde by lowering flags to half-staff. To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.     

Flags should be returned to full staff on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 due to ongoing flag honors for former President Jimmy Carter.