(The Center Square) – Democratic North Carolina state Rep. Kelly Alexander Jr. died Friday. He was 75.
Alexander died after an illness, one which he earlier said would prevent him from running for reelection this fall in Mecklenburg County-based District 107.
His political positions aligned strongly with his party, and he was known for his efforts to provide compensation to victims of state eugenics law, to legalize medical cannabis, and to remove the literacy test requirement from the state constitution.
The family’s statement said in part, “Kelly’s unwavering commitment to his city, district, state and this nation has been both profound and heartfelt throughout the years.”
From Washington, U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis wrote on social media, “So saddened by the passing of Rep. Kelly Alexander. It was a pleasure to work with him in the NCGA, and he was instrumental in the effort to make North Carolina the first state in the nation to provide compensation to eugenics victims.”
North Carolina was the first state to compensate living victims of the state-run forced sterilization program that lasted from 1929 to 1976. The 2013 law led to more than 200 victims in 2014 receiving thousands in compensation.
Virginia in 2015 became the second state to pass similar legislation.
In a post to social media, Gov. Roy Cooper wrote, “I was saddened to hear of the passing of longtime public servant, civil rights advocate and North Carolina Representative Kelly Alexander Jr. I’m grateful for his years of service to our state, and my thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”
Kelly, former president of the state chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, was appointed to the House of Representatives in 2008. He was reelected seven times.
By trade, he helped lead the family business – Alexander Funeral Home in Charlotte, a century-old business. Additionally, he was a teacher.
Charlotte-area Democrats have responsibility to select his successor for the remainder of the term through December.
