From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (main entry)

Jesse P. Warders was born in Russellville, KY, the son of Pearl Puckett. A 1952 graduate of Indiana University, he was elected Representative of the 41st District (Jefferson County, KY), serving 1966-1967. He co-sponsored the Kentucky Civil Rights Act.

Warders was the first African American director of the Louisville (KY) Department of Sanitation, selected by Mayor Kenneth Schmied. He was a real estate broker when he became the first African American member of the Louisville Urban Renewal Agency [source: "2 New members on renewal unit," The Courier-Journal, 5/21/1963, p. 15].

Warders received three bronze stars while enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II.

For more informaton contact the Kentucky Legislative Research Commission.