SALISBURY, Md. - WBOC has learned that former Salisbury Mayor and City Council President Jack Heath has passed away.
The Wicomico County Democratic Central Committee announced Heath’s death in a social media post on Tuesday, Sept., praising his leadership and service in Salisbury.
“Jack Heath devoted years of his life to serving the people of Salisbury,” Sonya Whited, Chair of the Wicomico County Democratic Central Committee, said. “Whether as a Councilmember, Council President, or Mayor, he approached public service with a deep commitment to the community and a belief that local government should work collaboratively to improve people's lives. His contributions to Salisbury will be remembered for years to come.”
According to the City of Salisbury, Heath worked more than 35 years in manufacturing, culminating in his role as President and CEO for Arkwright Inc. He then became CEO of Lower Shore Enterprises in Salisbury following his retirement.
In 2014, Heath was appointed to City Council and was elected as Council President in 2015. In 2023, he was sworn in as Salisbury’s 28th mayor following Jake Day’s departure to work in Governor Wes Moore’s administration.
While Heath originally told WBOC he planned to run again for mayor following his 10 month tenure finishing Day’s term, he ultimately announced his withdrawal from the mayoral race due to health concerns.
“Jack was an awesome Mayor, City Council President and community leader,” President and CEO of the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce Bill Chambers said on Tuesday. “He has left an indelible mark on Salisbury, its citizens, businesses and spirit.”
Heath was 80 years old.
