Mayor Eduardo Martinez Vice Mayor Doria Robinson City of Richmond District 3 July 28, 2026 City of Richmond
Proclamation Honoring the Life and Legacy of Joe Lee Fisher Sr.
WHEREAS, Mr. Joe Lee Fisher Sr. was a respected businessman, community advocate, spiritual leader, mentor, and longtime Richmond resident whose life reflected a deep commitment to service, opportunity, and community empowerment; and
WHEREAS, born in Jackson, Mississippi, in 1943, Mr. Fisher moved to Richmond with his family in 1944, attended Richmond High School, Contra Costa College, and Moler Barber College, and built a lifetime of service in the city he called home; and
WHEREAS, Joe owned several businesses, including three barber shops along Macdonald Avenue, Les and Joe’s clothing store, and Fisher Realtors, through which he helped residents pursue homeownership and build generational wealth; and
WHEREAS, as associate publisher of the Richmond Post, Joe celebrated local leaders, promoted community organizations, preserved Richmond’s history, and elevated those working to improve the city; and
WHEREAS, Joe served for many years with the Coronado Neighborhood Council and contributed to neighborhood improvement efforts, public safety initiatives, National Night Out celebrations, and the advancement of Black political representation in Richmond; and
WHEREAS, affectionately known as "Papa Joe," Joe Lee Fisher Sr. was a respected mentor, historian, businessman, and man of faith whose generosity, wisdom, and encouragement touched generations of Richmond residents, leaving a lasting legacy on the civic, economic, spiritual, and cultural life of the City;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, I, Eduardo Martinez, Mayor of the City of Richmond, on behalf of the Richmond City Council, do hereby honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Joe Lee Fisher Sr. and encourage all residents to reflect upon and celebrate his extraordinary contributions to the City of Richmond, whose enduring legacy of service, leadership, and community building will continue to inspire future generations.