I hereby authorize flags be flown at half-staff all day on Monday, November 18, 2024, on the grounds of the Alabama State Capitol Complex in Montgomery, and in the City of Mobile and throughout Mobile County to honor the life and service of former State Representative James Buskey, who passed away at the age of 87 on November 8, 2024. 

Born in Greenville, James Buskey grew up in Mobile where he graduated from Central High School. He demonstrated a passion for education, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education from Alabama State University, a Master of Arts degree in Teaching Mathematics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and an Education Specialist degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder. At home, he dedicated many years to teaching mathematics in the Mobile County School System and serving as assistant principal and finally principal spanning three different schools. He also made his mark in local health care and finance as the co-founder of Franklin Primary Health Center and Commonwealth National Bank. While these accomplishments would have been more than enough for many, James Buskey wanted to make a difference on a larger stage. In 1976, he first ran and won a seat in the Alabama State House representing Mobile. This led to a 42-year career in the Legislature – one of the longest among his peers. During his time in office, Representative Buskey was a stalwart champion for education and economic development. His legacy is long and profound. 

The flags on the grounds of the State Capitol Complex and in Mobile City and County may be flown at half-staff sunrise through sundown, Monday, November 18, 2024, the day of Rep. James Buskey’s interment.