[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 194 (Tuesday, November 18, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1087]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE OF DR. JAMES E. ALDREDGE

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                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 18, 2025

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of 
Dr. James E. Aldredge, a trailblazer, educator, and public servant 
whose lifelong commitment to improving the City of Fresno--particularly 
for residents in Southwest Fresno--has left an enduring mark on our 
community. Dr. Aldredge passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025, 
surrounded by his loved ones.
  Born in Gilmer, Texas, and raised in Fresno from the age of four, Dr. 
Aldredge's story is one of perseverance, excellence, and service. A 
star athlete at Edison High School, he signed with the Pittsburgh 
Pirates at just seventeen years old, showcasing the talent and 
determination that would define his life. After a career-ending injury 
ended his professional baseball aspirations, Dr. Aldredge redirected 
his focus to education, an area he would champion for decades to come.
  Dr. Aldredge earned degrees from Fresno City College and California 
State University, Fresno, before completing both a master's and Ph.D. 
in Organizational Development at the University of Southern California, 
with additional studies at Oxford University. His academic journey 
reflected his deep belief that education is the key opportunity, a 
principle he shared throughout his life with students and colleagues 
alike.
  In 1985, Dr. Aldredge made history when he became Fresno's first 
Black City Manager, breaking barriers and paving the way for future 
generations of leaders. His steady leadership, integrity, and 
commitment to equity guided the city through times of transition and 
progress. After retiring from City Hall in 1989, he continued to serve 
the community as an educator at Fresno State, City College, the 
University of San Francisco, and Fresno Pacific University, mentoring 
countless students who would go on to serve their own communities with 
the same sense of purpose.
  Beyond public service, Dr. Aldredge dedicated his time to numerous 
organizations, including the boards of Saint Agnes Hospital, Kings View 
Behavioral Health, and CEN-CAL Business Finance Group. He also 
established a foundation that grew over one million dollars in assets 
to support students, athletes, and social services. Among his many 
honors, he received the B'nai B'rith Award for his lifelong commitment 
to justice and equality and was inducted into the State Center 
Community College District's Wall of Honor at the African American 
Historical and Cultural Museum.
  Dr. Aldredge was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Daisy Rae, 
and his brother, John Aldredge. He is remembered by his family, 
friends, colleagues, and former students for his humor, wisdom, and 
unwavering belief in Fresno's potential. His legacy continues through 
the James E. Aldredge Foundation, which embodies his vision of 
empowering others through education and civic engagement.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives 
to join me in recognizing and celebrating the extraordinary life of Dr. 
James E. Aldredge. His story reminds us that true leadership is rooted 
in service, resilience, and commitment to uplifting the communities we 
call home.

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