Mary Sheffield Biography 2025: Husband, Net Worth, Education, Parents & Ethnicity

Mary Sheffield, a prominent American politician, has made history by winning the Detroit mayoral election on November 4, 2025, defeating Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. With this victory, Sheffield will become the first woman to hold the position of mayor in Detroit’s history. Sheffield, who has served as a member of the Detroit City Council since 2014, was previously elected as the youngest-ever council member at the age of 26.

Background and Early Life

Born in 1987 in Detroit, Michigan, Sheffield is currently 38 years old. She earned her bachelor’s degree in public affairs from Wayne State University in 2008 and went on to complete a master’s degree in public administration from Central Michigan University. During her time at university, Sheffield met Benny Napoleon, the former sheriff of Wayne County, who later offered her a position as a disciplinary hearing officer within the county jail system.

Family and Personal Life

Mary Sheffield is in a relationship with Brian McKinney, who owns Gayanga, a demolition company based in Detroit. Though reports suggest they are not married, the two have been partners for several years. Sheffield is the daughter of Horace Sheffield III and Mrs. Sheffield. Details about her siblings remain private.

Political Career

Sheffield’s political career began in 2010 when she ran for a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives. Although she did not win, she soon found success in local politics, running for the Detroit City Council’s fifth district in 2013. She won the seat and became the youngest council member in the city’s history at just 26 years old. In January 2022, Sheffield became the president of the Detroit City Council, again breaking records as the youngest person to hold the role.

Sheffield began exploring a run for mayor in 2023, eventually forming a campaign team that led her to victory in both the primary and general elections of 2025.

Net Worth and Personal Beliefs

As of October 2025, Sheffield’s estimated net worth is approximately $1.5 million, accrued through various sources. She has an African-American ethnicity and is a Christian by faith.