CHARLESTON, W.Va. — John Hutchinson, one of the most successful mayors in the history of Charleston, died Friday. He was 89.
Hutchinson, a Democrat, was able to win three terms in office in the 1970s. His accomplishments make up a long list like improvements to the Charleston Civic Center, including the construction of the Civic Center Coliseum. He also led the effort to create an area where the Charleston Town Center Mall would be constructed.
Hutchinson also oversaw the construction of community centers and parking garages.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Charleston Mayor John G. Hutchinson whose remarkable service, as the youngest Mayor in our City’s history, left an indelible mark on our community,” current Charleston Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin said in a statement. “His long-term vision has had lasting impacts and continues to influence our community many years later – whether you’re catching a show at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center or visiting one of our community centers. As we honor his memory and legacy, we extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Mayor Hutchinson’s loved ones.”
Hutchinson, who died in Atlanta where he lived in an assisted living facility, was first elected in 1971 when he was only 36. He won reelection in 1975 and again in 1979. In March 1980 he won a special election to fill West Virginia’s Third District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives following the death of Rep. John Slack. Hutchinson lost the fall election for the seat to Republican Mick Staton.
Hutchinson worked in financial services for several years after leaving the political arena.