Jim Roddey, Allegheny County's first chief executive has died. He was 91.
Roddey game to Pittsburgh mid-career and became one of its greatest advocates and leaders.
He served as the County’s first executive from 2000 to 2004.
He also served on the boards of many companies and organizations, including Turner Communications and Rollins Communications.
Roddey graduated from Texas Christian University and was a former captain in the United States Marine Corps.
He was honored for his service to the Republican committee at its annual Spirit of Lincoln fundraising dinner in February of 2016.
He was a friend and mentor to many.
Dan Onorato followed Roddey as county executive and tells the Big K Morning Show he was always a gentleman.
“When I won the race against him, four years later, he actually endorsed me publicly, we became good friends, he was a supporter,” said Onorato.
Former county Executive Rich Fitzgerald tells the Big K Morning show Mr. Roddey put things aside to get things done.
“Probably the kind of politician that we don’t necessarily see these days, in a more divisive environment,” said Fitzgerald.
Current county executive, Sara Innamorato released the following statement:
"We offer our condolences to the Roddey family as they grieve during this difficult time. Jim Roddey left an indelible mark on Southwestern Pennsylvania, through his business acumen, philanthropy, and public service. With his passing, we remember his commitment not only to this region as a political and civic leader, but also to our nation through his time in the Marines. As the first Allegheny County Executive he shaped how a government of 6,000 employees, now with a $3 billion annual budget, serves more than a million of our neighbors across Allegheny County. We are, and will continue to be, grateful for his service."