Mayor Johnson’s statement on the death of former state Rep. Sam Hudson

DALLAS — Mayor Eric Johnson on Tuesday issued the following statement on the death of former 12-term state Representative Sam Hudson:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Sam Hudson, who I considered to be a friend and a mentor. Representative Hudson epitomized what it meant to be a public servant. He provided me with my first glimpse into public service by hiring me as an intern in his district office when I was a high school student. I am forever grateful for that opportunity, and I loved working for him. He was one of the kindest people I have ever known — a true gentleman. I admired him so greatly that I exclusively wore bow ties — his trademark look — for a time while I was in high school. When I was elected to represent District 100, which he had served so gracefully for 24 years, I tried to live up to the example he set. Our city and our state are better because of his time in the Texas Legislature, and I, like many others, are better for having known him. May he rest in peace.”