Obituary of James Alan McPherson

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James Alan McPherson

James Alan McPherson (born September 16, 1943 in Savannah, Georgia) was a poet and writer who was best known for being the first African American writer to win the Pulitzer Prize for fiction and for his 1977 short story collection, “Elbow Room: Stories.” James died on July 27, 2016 and his death was because of complications from pneumonia. He died at age 72.

Please help us remember the life of James Alan McPherson by contributing to his obituary, his family tree, funeral, burial, his birth, family, career and death in the sections below.

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James Alan McPherson Biography Wiki:

    • Is He Dead or Alive: Dead
    • Full Name: Alan McPherson, James
    • Common Name: James Alan McPherson
    • Gender: Male
    • Preferred Gender Pronoun: he/him
    • Birthplace: Savannah, Georgia, United States
    • Birth Date: September 16, 1943
    • Age: 72 (at death)
    • Also Known As: Jimmy
    • Occupations:
    • Active Years: 1968-2016
    • Net Worth: $1 to $9 million
    • Nationality: American
    • Favorite Food: Franks Hot Sauce
    • Favorite Color: Pink
    • Favorite Scent: Creed Aventus
    • Favorite Actor: Margot Robbie

    James's Family Tree

    • Birth Name: James Alan McPherson
    • Father: James Allen McPherson
    • Mother: Mable McPherson (née Small)
    • Spouse/Partner:
      • Sarah Lynn Charlton (married?-divorced?)
    • Son(s):
      • Benjamin Miyamoto
    • Daughter(s):
      • Rachel McPherson

Death Notice:

  • Date: July 27 2016 at age 72
  • Place: Iowa City, Iowa, United States
  • Cause of Death: Pneumonia (related complications)

Category Tags:

PoetWriter American Born on September 16th Born in 1943 Born in Georgia Died in 2016 Died at age 72 Died from Pneumonia

James's Notable Roles:

  • Elbow Room: Stories

Quotable Quotes:

"James Alan McPherson lived a life of brilliance and creativity, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. (V)"

"James Alan McPherson led a diverse and distinguished career as a writer and professor, earning numerous accolades for his groundbreaking works exploring race, identity, and the American experience, ultimately leaving behind a powerful legacy upon his passing. (V)"

Is Mr. James Alan McPherson still alive? According to our unconfirmed records, he has passed away.

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Celebrity Obit Rating: 4 Stars
Wiki Page Updated: 2026-01-03 00:43:09
Author: Stan
Confirmation: James Alan McPherson on Wikipedia


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