James “Jim” Silcott, FAIA, a pioneering figure in architecture and a devoted philanthropist, has passed away at the age of 95 on July 17, 2025, in Washington, DC, as confirmed by his family.
Services are scheduled to be held at Howard University’s campus chapel, the institution where Silcott completed his studies, on Saturday, August 16. Following the memorial, he will be laid to rest at Inglewood Park Cemetery in Inglewood on Saturday, September 6.
Silcott moved to Los Angeles in 1958 after earning his degree from Howard University. He broke barriers as one of the first Black architects hired by the Los Angeles County, facing significant resistance to his professional growth. This challenge led him to file a lawsuit that culminated in a notable million-dollar settlement, which greatly advanced the opportunities for Black architects within local government employment.
His legal victory heralded a change, resulting in the awarding of design contracts to Black-owned architectural firms, thereby reshaping the landscape of the industry.
As his career progressed, Silcott became an influential figure, receiving multiple appointments to key community boards and commissions by Los Angeles Mayors Tom Bradley and Richard Riordan. He played a crucial role as a principal in the Kennard Design Group Architects, previously recognized as the largest Black-owned firm west of the Mississippi. The firm was responsible for numerous monumental projects that catered to the needs of minority communities within Los Angeles.
In honor of his significant contributions, the American Institute of Architects inducted him into the esteemed College of Fellows, a distinction awarded to only 3% of the nation’s licensed architects. This recognition reflects his nationwide leadership and dedication to the field.
Silcott’s commitment to Howard University never faltered throughout his life. He maintained a presence in Washington, DC, contributing over $3 million towards the School of Architecture and serving a six-year term as a full member of the Howard Board of Trustees. His philanthropy distinguished him as the leading Black benefactor in the effort to increase the number of licensed Black architects in the United States.
Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Silcott’s academic journey began at Howard University in 1949. Following a three-year service in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, where he rose to the rank of sergeant, he returned to complete his Bachelor of Architecture professional degree. His professional credentials included licenses to practice architecture in California, New York, Massachusetts, and the District of Columbia.
In early 2020, Silcott suffered a stroke that significantly affected his quality of life. Nevertheless, he showed remarkable resilience and continued to live in Washington, DC, under the attentive care of a dedicated nursing staff. He peacefully passed away in his sleep at his residence on the morning of July 17.
James Silcott is predeceased by his parents, Louise and Joseph (Chris) Silcott, and siblings Ceceila O’Gara and T. George Silcott. He is survived by seven nieces and nephews, along with their children and grandchildren, who carry on his legacy of tenacity and triumph in the architectural field.
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