James Michael “Mike” Clampitt, a dedicated public servant and Republican member of the North Carolina House of Representatives, passed away on March 18, 2026, at the age of 71. Clampitt represented the 119th district, serving portions of Haywood, Jackson, and Swain counties, and was known for his commitment to his Western North Carolina constituents. His passing marks the end of a life characterized by service, both in uniform and in the legislative halls of his home state.

Born on February 17, 1955, in Swain County, North Carolina, Mike Clampitt’s early life laid the foundation for his future dedication to community safety and public affairs. He graduated from Swain County High School in 1973 and pursued further education at Rowan Technical Institute, earning an associate's degree in fire science and technology in 1976. His career in public safety began in 1977 when he joined the Charlotte Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of captain, serving with distinction until his retirement in 2004.

Following his distinguished career as a firefighter, Clampitt turned his attention to political service. After several unsuccessful bids for office, including for the Swain County Board of Commissioners and the North Carolina House of Representatives, his perseverance paid off. He was first elected to the North Carolina House of Representatives in 2016, a victory that brought him to Raleigh to advocate for his district.

During his tenure in the General Assembly, Representative Clampitt was a vocal advocate for issues important to his rural constituents. He served on numerous committees, notably chairing the Federal Relations and American Indian Affairs Committee and serving as Vice Chair of the Emergency Management and Disaster Recovery Committee. His legislative efforts often focused on wildlife conservation and combatting impaired driving, reflecting his deep connection to the natural resources and safety concerns of Western North Carolina. In 2018, he received a 90% rating on the NC Values Coalition Legislative Scorecard, underscoring his conservative principles.

Clampitt continued to serve his district with unwavering dedication, securing re-election multiple times. He was in the midst of seeking his fifth term in office, having easily won the Republican primary for his seat earlier in March 2026, just weeks before his death. His commitment to public service remained strong even as he battled cancer, a diagnosis he received in 2025. Mike Clampitt’s legacy will be remembered through his tireless work for his community and his steadfast representation in the North Carolina House.