by Shawn Nowlin
Leading the City of Roanoke is a challenging, daunting task that very few are equipped to handle. This year will mark the end of an era of Mayor Sherman Lea, 71, as the face of the Star City. On Dec. 31, his term will officially end.
The pride of Virginia Union University (VUU) is a longtime Democrat. Lea won his first mayoral term eight years ago, which was unopposed. With 52 percent of the vote over David Bowers, he won re-election in 2020.
Over the holiday break, Lea publicly announced that he would not be seeking another term in the upcoming election.
“This journey has been one of profound honor, with each election – an affirmation of our shared vision for Roanoke. As I reflect on a career marked by the unwavering trust and support of the community I have served, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of our city’s successes,” he said.
Independent Stephanie Moon-Reynolds, Vice Mayor Joe Cobb and former Mayor David Bowers are a few of the possible candidates to succeed Lea.
For a quarter-century, Lea worked as a public servant. After serving on the Roanoke City School Board for five years, he was elected to city council in 2004. A decade after forming the Domestic Violence Task Force in 2005, Lea started his Youth Outdoor Basketball League.
As Mayor, Lea oversaw the redevelopment of two high schools, a new bus system, the return of Amtrak and the redevelopment of four library branches, among other things.
Fostering partnerships with area communities and governments to address serious problems is what Lea considers his greatest accomplishment. Senator Tim Kaine is one of many federal lawmakers that he worked closely with over the years.
“As I prepare to pass the baton, I am confident that Roanoke will continue to thrive, championing the values we hold dear. My commitment to our city remains steadfast and I look forward to the ways I can continue to contribute to the community that has given me so much,” he explained, adding, “Thank you for entrusting me with your voice, your hopes and your dreams. Together, we have built a legacy of progress and unity that will endure for generations to come.”
Lea’s professional life was spent with the Va. Dept. of Corrections. He was appointed to the Virginia Parole Board after retiring. Roanoke’s second Black mayor was also the first Black chief probation and parole officer in the state.
A native of Pittsylvania County, Lea attended VUU and was an offensive lineman on the football squad that won the school’s first conference championship in five decades. In 2017, he was named a Legend of the CIAA.
Lea’s wife and soulmate, Clara, died in 2021.
Dealing with adversity made Lea a better mayor. Under his leadership, the city saw significant improvements, especially pertaining to infrastructure. When asked what he will miss most, Lea said making a positive difference in the lives of everyday people.
This time next year, Roanoke’s leadership landscape will look completely different. In addition to the mayor’s race, on the Nov. 2024 ballot will also be seats currently held by Moon-Reynolds, White-Boyd and Luke Priddy.
Ending his mayorship on his own terms was very important to Lea. Now that retirement is imminent, he is looking forward to spending more quality time with his grandchildren and other loved ones.
