2026 House Resolution 286

Whereas, It was with great sorrow that the members of the House of Representatives learned about the passing of James “Jim” McBryde. He will be remembered as a dedicated public servant by his constituents in Clare, Isabella, and Mecosta counties and the people of the State of Michigan; and

Whereas, Born in Santa Monica, California, Jim moved to Michigan when he was 11. After graduating from East Grand Rapids High School, he graduated with honors from Central Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in political science. Early in his career, Jim worked as a sales and marketing representative for various companies, in addition to working in the family shoe business; and

Whereas, In 1982, Jim began his journey into public service when he served as a member of the Isabella County Republican Executive Committee. Two years later, he was elected to the Isabella County Commission, where he served until 1990, acting as vice chair for two terms. Jim was also chair of the Isabella County Criminal Justice Committee, a founding member of the Isabella County 9-1-1 governing board, and a member of the Isabella County Inter-Governmental Committee. Further, he served as a Republican precinct delegate, was a co-chair of the Isabella County Republican Campaign committees for the 1988 and 1990 elections, and was a co-chair of the Isabella County Bush for President campaign; and

Whereas, In 1991, Jim headed to Lansing after being elected to represent the Ninety-ninth District in the House of Representatives. He served four terms in the House before retiring due to term limits. Jim made the most of his years in the state capital, receiving a number of awards for his hard work and dedication. In 1992, he received the Central Michigan University Centennial Award, was named Legislator of the Year by the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association in 1994, was given the Legislative Star award from the Michigan Deputy Sheriffs’ Association in both 1994 and 1996, and received the Merit Service Award from the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe in 1995; and

Whereas, After his retirement from the Michigan Legislature, Jim continued to serve his community and the people of Michigan, acting as the vice president of governmental affairs for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, interim chair for the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, and as a special assistant for the Michigan Department of Community Health. He was particularly committed to the Mt. Pleasant community, serving as a member of the Isabella County Farm Bureau, the Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Mt. Pleasant Lions Club; and

Whereas, Remembered as a compassionate leader with an unwavering commitment to Middle Michigan, Jim was often heard advocating for legislation and investment that both grew local economies and made a difference in the lives of everyday Michiganders. In 2015, Jim joined the Middle Michigan Development Corporation as president and chief executive officer, where he worked tirelessly to bring economic growth and prosperity to the region. Jim’s work earned him the Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and in 2020 he was honored as a medalist for the Economic Developer of the Year Award from the Michigan Economic Developers Association; and

Whereas, Jim and his wife, Kim, who were married for 37 years, had four daughters, one granddaughter, and one grandson. Jim also maintained a deep commitment to his faith. He was also a founding member of the Mt. Pleasant Community Church, where he could be found serving with the usher team each Sunday. Jim enjoyed being a strong supporter of many Christian ministries and was even planning a mission trip to South Africa to teach skills for improving economic development; and

Whereas, Though he stayed busy with work and family, Jim always made time to enjoy his favorite hobbies. He enjoyed all things superhero, NASA, Corvettes, Hummers, Walt Disney, Mickey Mouse, and The Beatles. You could also often find him cheering on Detroit’s beloved Tigers and Lions. As a lifelong Star Wars fan, Jim was proud to make an appearance as an extra in Star Wars Episode II, Attack of the Clones, and Episode III, Revenge of the Sith; and

Whereas, Upon Jim McBryde’s passing, we offer our condolences to his loved ones. His contributions to this chamber and the State of Michigan will be remembered; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of James “Jim” McBryde, a member of the House of Representatives from 1991 to 1998; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the McBryde family as evidence of our lasting esteem for his memory.