Today, Congressman Ronny Jackson of Texas’ 13th Congressional District has reintroduced a bill to rename the U.S. Post Office in downtown Amarillo as the “Mayor Jerry H. Hodge Post Office Building.” This move honors former Amarillo mayor, Jerry Hodge, for his dedication to the community. Senator Ted Cruz is supporting this effort with companion legislation in the Senate.
“Jerry Hodge’s impact on Amarillo extended far beyond his titles,” said Rep. Ronny Jackson. “He was the youngest mayor in the city’s history, a successful businessman, and a proud rancher. Jerry’s personality was larger than life, and he worked tirelessly each day to make life better for the people of the Texas Panhandle. I’m proud to have called him a friend and am honored to introduce this piece of legislation to recognize his enduring legacy.”
Senator Cruz added, “Mayor Hodge was a pillar of the Amarillo community and a true servant leader to the Panhandle.” He praised Hodge’s transformation of a local pharmacy into a national enterprise and his role in establishing the Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine.
Tedd L. Mitchell, Chancellor of the Texas Tech University System, remarked on Hodge’s significant contributions: “A true trailblazer… Jerry and his wife, Margaret, have been instrumental supporters… Without the Hodges, Texas Tech University… would not have such a crucial presence in Amarillo today.”
Vance Reed from Reed Beverage commented on Hodge’s multifaceted nature: “Jerry Hodge was a man of many facets… His legacy is etched not only in businesses but also in lives he touched.”
Alex Fairly of Fairly Group stated that “Amarillo is better because of Jerry’s unselfish leadership,” while Richard Ware from Amarillo National Bank described him as “a man of his word and a true friend.”
The text for this bill can be accessed for further details.
