Today, Greensboro lost its greatest champion. Former Mayor E.S. “Jim” Melvin— known to many as “Mr. Greensboro.”  He dedicated his life to shaping the city we love.

Mr. Melvin served as Mayor from 1971 to 1981, leading with vision, dedication, and a deep belief in Greensboro’s potential. At all times, he was driven by a desire to make Greensboro the best it could be— planning carefully for future growth and working to ensure our residents had access to well-paying jobs. 

His service to the City didn’t end when he left public office. As president of the Joseph M. Bryan Foundation, Jim pursued bold, transformative projects that will continue to shape our future for decades. Chief among them was his early, unwavering vision for bringing the Toyota Battery Manufacturing NC to our region.

Years before it became a reality, Jim recognized the site’s potential to create thousands of good-paying jobs, attract significant investment, and transform the economic future of Greensboro and the surrounding area.

Jim’s work touched every corner of Greensboro— from education and the arts to sports and economic development. Many of our city’s greatest achievements carry his fingerprints and reflect his belief that Greensboro could compete— and win— on the national stage.

 Jim Melvin will be remembered not only for what he built, but for the way he built it— with respect, generosity, and an unshakable dedication to this community. His legacy is etched into the very fabric of Greensboro, and his example will continue to inspire us to think big, work together, and always put our city first.

Our deepest sympathy and appreciation go out to his family— his beloved wife Susan; his sons, Jimbo and Taylor; and their families— for sharing him with the City of Greensboro.

Mayor Nancy Vaughan 

Greensboro, NC