Former Shreveport Mayor John Hussey has died

SHREVEPORT, La. – Former Shreveport Mayor John Hussey has died. He was 92.

Hussey served two terms – from 1982 to 1990. He was the first mayor under the new mayor-council form of government.

His funeral service 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. 

Hussey is best remembered for spearheading the city's 1985 Sesquicentennial celebration.

At a Celebrate Downtown Legacy event last July, Hussey was the Grand Honoree Recognition winner. A standing ovation and tears of appreciation greeted him as he was honored for what was described as his "visionary leadership and tireless advocacy" during one of Shreveport’s most transformative periods.

It was under Hussey’s direction that the city hosted its 1985 Sesquicentennial – an eleven-month celebration that united citizens and reignited civic pride, according to the Downtown Development Authority. 

Local reaction

Mayor Tom Arceneaux said, “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.”

Arceneaux, who served on the City Council during both of Hussey’s terms as mayor, recalled the final award that Hussey received, the Grand Honoree Recognition. He talked about the Hussey’s visionary leadership and tireless advocacy during one of Shreveport’s most transformative periods. 

"Mayor Hussey’s time in office stands as a testament to the importance of civic leadership grounded in compassion, vision, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of citizens. He leaves behind a legacy of service and a lasting reminder that public office is a calling to serve others and strengthen the communities we call home," Arceneaux said.

“Mayor Hussey led Shreveport at a critical moment in our city’s history,” said Shreveport City Council Chairwoman Tabatha Taylor. “His service during the transition to the mayor-council form of government helped establish the foundation upon which our city continues to operate today. As we reflect on his life and legacy, we are reminded of the importance of dedicated public service and the lasting impact one leader can have on an entire community.”

Vice Chairwoman Ursula Bowman also reflected on Mayor Hussey’s public service and his relationship with the City Council, saying, “As a former member of the Shreveport City Council, Mayor Hussey understood the importance of collaboration, respect, and working together to serve the people of Shreveport,” said Bowman. “He brought a unique perspective to the mayor’s office, having previously served in the legislative branch of city government. His commitment to public service and his love for this city were evident throughout his career.”

“Mayor Hussey’s leadership and dedication to the people of Shreveport left a lasting impression on our city,” said Councilman Gary Brooks. “His commitment to public service serves as an example for future generations of leaders.”

“Mayor Hussey cared deeply about Shreveport and worked tirelessly to reduce crime,” said Councilman Jim Taliaferro. “He and his wife Mimi were staunch supporters of Crime Stoppers. Mimi was one of the first board members when it was created.”

“Mayor Hussey served as mayor during my middle school and high school years, and his leadership and love for our city helped inspire my own path to public service and ultimately my role on the City Council,” said Councilman Grayson Boucher. “He helped lay the groundwork for many of the systems and structures that continue to serve our residents today, and we honor his legacy and the positive impact he had on our community.”

“Mayor Hussey demonstrated what it means to lead with purpose and dedication,” said Councilman Alan Jackson, Jr. “His service to Shreveport reflects a lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others.”

“Mayor Hussey’s contributions to our city will be remembered for years to come,” said Councilman James Green. “We extend our heartfelt prayers and condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

'Celebration of Life'

Hussey shared what he called two important lessons from his experience as the city’s top leader in a “A Celebration of Life” project in 2013.

“First, to be an effective Mayor, the only way to get things done is by developing a consensus, that is, by persuasion. I used to think that any Mayor had enough power to get others to support what he wanted to do, but this is not so. I was elected in 1982 with 54% of the vote; the media called it a landslide victory. A friend reminded me that on the day of my landslide win, 46% of the people wanted someone else to be Mayor. This helped me remember that whenever I wanted to get something done, I had to persuade others that it was the right thing to do. This is where political power comes from: the ability to persuade others to your point of view,” shared Hussey.

“Second, an elected official must be willing to take positions that may be unpopular, but are the right thing to do. (A City Councilman once said to me; Mayor, you are right. Some times you have to put your principles aside, and do the right thing.) Many politicians make a decision based on how it will affect their own career. It is often difficult to do, but you must be independent enough to do what is right, even if it costs you your job.”

The LSUS Northwest Louisiana Archives includes biographical information about Hussey, noting that during his tenure as mayor, Shreveport had the largest building program in its history, including street maintenance, housing projects, economic development and institution of the Emergency 911 system. Projects built during his administration include the Clyde Fant Parkway North and South, draining projects, a new water plant, a new sewer plant, extensive additions to the city's park systems, a new landfill, and the city's baseball stadium, Fair Grounds Field.

During his eight years as mayor, the city operated with a balanced budget, attained the highest bond rating in the state, fully funded its pension funds, and ended each year with a budget surplus.

At the time of the "A Celebration of Life" project, Hussey was 78 years old and shared how his life had been blessed by family and friends through the years.

“I am grateful for my family and friends, who are the most important things to me,” he said.

Hussey was an attorney, receiving his law degree from LSU in 1958. He also served as an officer in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Reserves.

He and his wife, Emily Ann Wile, known as Mimi, were married in 1960 and had two children, David Brennan Hussey and John Edward Hussey. Mimi Hussey died in 2015.