Shreveport Remembers a Beloved Leader and Former Mayor

Shreveport mourns the passing of former Mayor John Hussey. He served on the Shreveport City Council from 1978 to 1982 and served as Mayor from 1982-1990. Mayor Tom Arceneaux describes Hussey as "a dedicated public servant whose leadership reflected a deep commitment to the people and progress of our community."

Erin McCarty

Arceneaux adds:

John Hussey was my mentor and a shining example of the qualities that define truly exceptional leadership. He embodied the highest standards of character, integrity, compassion, and strength; possessed a clear and visionary perspective; and demonstrated a genuine and profound commitment to serving others. His life and leadership reflected the very ideals that all public servants should strive to emulate.

I have so many fond memories of John Hussey. In 1984, I moved to Shreveport as a 21-year-old reporter. Part of my duties involved covering city hall. This included council meetings and everything happening in city government. John Hussey made that part of my job easy. He was always open and available.

He guided our city during a very tumultuous time, the 1988 Cedar Grove riots. He remained calm during this terrible time of racial tension in our city. The 1980's were also a tough time on the crime front in Shreveport with gangs invading our city.

The next time you drive down the Clyde Fant Parkway, please remember John Hussey. That was his vision. He also led the charge to keep billboards off of that green space. That was a pretty big debate at the time.

Mayor Arceneaux says "the City of Shreveport extends heartfelt appreciation for Mayor Hussey’s contributions and honors the mark he made on our city’s history. His dedication will continue to be remembered with gratitude and respect by those who knew his service and those who continue to benefit from the foundation laid by leaders such as him."

The funeral service for Hussey is set for 11 a.m. June 27 at Elizabeth Ann Seaton Church. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. June 26 at Osborn Funeral Home.