By Carla Thomas

Community leader and dental practitioner, Dr. James Sweeney III passed away on Aug. 10.

A Nashville native, Sweeney earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Fisk University in his hometown in 1967. He then attended Meharry Medical College, also in Nashville, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1971. From 1971 to 1973, Dr. Sweeney served in the United States Air Force at David Grant Hospital, Travis AFB, CA. At the completion of his service, Dr. Sweeney began his private practice as an associate dentist with Dr. Henry Lucas in San Francisco, CA.

In 1975, he joined what is now known as Oasis Dental and practiced there throughout his career.

Sweeney’s career stands as a testament to his dedication to excellence in dentistry, mentorship, and community service. His decades-long commitment to both his patients and the neighborhood he serves has left a lasting legacy of compassion, leadership, and impact.

“He was devoted to his patients and enjoyed chatting with them during their appointments,” said his wife of 46 years, Pamela Sweeney. Sweeney said the doctor took meticulous notes on the lives of his patients, charting vacations and graduations. “He really enjoyed what he did and cared so much about his patients.”

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Yet, Sweeney’s legacy extends far beyond the walls of his practice. His career has been a tapestry woven with threads of outreach, leadership, and mentorship. From co-directing dental services at Our Lady of Guadalupe Health Center in Daly City to guiding the next generation of dentists as a volunteer clinical professor at the University of California and the University of the Pacific. His dedication to neighborhood well-being led to the founding of the MacArthur Blvd. Merchants’ Association, fostering collaboration and economic vitality for Oakland’s diverse communities. Sweeney’s leadership was felt in countless roles: Board Member and Fundraising Chair for the Oakland Neighborhood Housing Service, and a driving force behind local initiatives like the Oakland Sharing the Vision Task Force.

As a member of the Greater Bay Area Dental Society, he helped shape the standards and practices of his profession. Sweeney was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and a pillar in professional societies mentoring the next generation of professionals.

He enjoyed reading, playing golf, trips to Mexico, and retelling his favorite stories. Sweeney courageously fought cancer three times in his life, losing the last battle earlier this month.

Sweeney’s surviving family members include his daughter, Kelly Woolfolk, Esq.; his son, James Sweeney, IV; and his grandson, Andrew Woolfolk. He is also survived by a wide circle of friends and cherished community members in Oakland and beyond.

“As per his wishes, no memorial services will be held,” said his wife.”

“In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in his memory to Fisk University or Meharry Medical College in Nashville – continuing his legacy of support for his beloved institutions,” she said.

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