The Office of the Governor of the State of Michigan

11/04/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/04/2026 13:57

Gov. Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Former State Representative and Livonia Mayor Jack Kirksey

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 4, 2026

Gov. Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Former State Representative and Livonia Mayor Jack Kirksey

LANSING, Mich. - Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to be lowered to half-staff on, November 5, 2026, to honor and remember former state Representative and Livonia Mayor Jack Kirksey.

"Representative Kirksey was a dedicated public servant who served his community admirably in the U.S. Air Force and the state House," said Governor Whitmer. "My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those who worked with and served alongside him. Michigan has lost an exceptional leader, and we will continue to honor his legacy for years to come."

Jack Kirksey was born in 1928 and grew up on Detroit's east side. After graduating from Wayne State University, he became a teacher in the Detroit Public School District and later became a principal for Livonia Public Schools. Kirksey also proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, serving as a reservist and obtaining the rank of Lt. Colonel.

In 1977, Kirksey began his work in public service where he served in the Michigan House of Representatives for four terms, as well the Schoolcraft College Board of Trustees, before becoming Mayor of Livonia for 16 years. As mayor, Kirksey led construction of the Livonia Community Recreation Center, established the Fallen Heroes Memorial at Nehasil Park, and helped establish the economic corridor along Haggerty Road.

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and service of former state Representative Jack Kirksey by lowering flags to half-staff within the State Capitol Complex. 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 day, November 6, 2026.

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