June 11, 2025 Story by: Publisher
Irma Clark‑Coleman, a steadfast champion for education, justice, and community in Detroit and Wayne County, passed away on June 10 at 88 years old after a brief illness, according to a Wayne County Commission statement. With over six decades of service—from Detroit’s school board to state legislature, and culminating with her role on the Wayne County Commission—she leaves a profound legacy of civic commitment.
Career Highlights & Civic Impact
Wayne County Commission (2010–2025):
First elected in 2010 to represent District 5, Clark‑Coleman entered her sixth term this year. She notably chaired the Public Safety, Judiciary & Homeland Security Committee and took part in initiatives around corrections and land use. Colleagues praised her dedication to public safety and community corrections.
Michigan State Legislature (1999–2010):
Before county service, Clark‑Coleman spent eight years in the state Senate and four in the House, representing Detroit and nearby communities. Legislation she helped pass included higher standards for high school graduation, streamlined foster/adoption regulations, and enhanced educational funding.
Detroit Board of Education (1991–1998):
Appointed in 1991, she rose to board president by 1996. Her tenure focused on improving student outcomes, fostering teacher accountability, and reinforcing community partnerships.
Early Public Administration Career:
Beginning in 1967 as a road commission stenographer, Clark‑Coleman rose through multiple roles—public information, media relations, and human relations director—under Wayne County executives, including William Lucas and Edward McNamara.
Personal Roots & Community Engagement
Born in Wrens, Georgia, she relocated to Detroit during her youth. She graduated from Pershing High School and earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communications from Wayne State University—becoming the first in her family to attend college.
Clark‑Coleman maintained active community roles: a life member of the NAACP, an Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority member, a board member at Living Waters Church, plus involvement in United Way and Detroit Good Fellows initiatives.
Honoring Her Legacy
- Alisha Bell, Chair of Wayne County Commission, said Clark‑Coleman “brought a wealth of knowledge and experience” and “will be profoundly missed” by her constituents.
- County Executive Warren Evans noted her relentless dedication with statements like: “Her impact improved the lives of literally thousands. She will be sorely missed.”.
- Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, reflecting on their long partnership, called her “the most driven public servant” he had ever met.
- Commissioner Jonathan Kinloch added that her passing “is an enormous loss” and praised her advocacy for children and seniors across Detroit.
Awards & Recognitions
Clark‑Coleman’s extensive contributions earned her numerous awards, including the Michigan Chronicle’s Women of Excellence, the Spirit of Detroit, and the “Tomorrow Power” honor from the Girl Scouts. She was also a 1997 “Headliner” alumna of Wayne State’s Women of Wayne and recognized by Michigan’s School Social Workers.
Source: Bridge Detroit / Michigan Legislature / Wayne County
