TRIBUTE TO REVEREND KENNETH F. HODGES

On 2025-04-30, Representative James E. Clyburn (D-SC-6) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO REVEREND KENNETH F. HODGES" in the House.

TRIBUTE TO REVEREND KENNETH F. HODGES

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E368-E369] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO REVEREND KENNETH F. HODGES ______ HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN of south carolina in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a distinguished South Carolinian--a pastor, legislator, artist, and community builder whose influence reached far beyond his beloved Lowcountry. Reverend Kenneth F. Hodges, a native of Bennetts Point, passed away on April 22, 2025, having left an indelible imprint on the spiritual, cultural, and civic life of South Carolina. His journey was marked by service, creativity, and a deep devotion to both his heritage and his faith. Born to Benjamin and Lydia Hodges in the Sea Island community of Bennetts Point, Reverend Hodges excelled early in both academics and athletics. A record-setting track star at Walterboro High School, he went on to earn a business degree from Clark College, where he also studied photography under the esteemed Edmond Marshal. His powerful images of African life and culture earned national acclaim and awards. His passion for the arts led him to establish LyBensons Studio and Art Gallery--later expanding into the Gullah Geechee Visitors Center on St. Helena Island. After earning a Master of Divinity degree from the Morehouse School of Religion in Atlanta, Georgia, Reverend Hodges pastored churches in Bennettsville and Beaufort, South Carolina. At Taberbacle Baptist Church, he spearheaded efforts to honor African American icons, including securing recognition for Robert Smalls' gravesite and leading the construction of the Harriet Tubman Monument. His spiritual calling extended abroad as he preached and taught across Africa and the United Kingdom. [[Page E369]] Elected to the South Carolina House of representatives in 2006, Reverend Hodges served until 2016. He introduced the bill naming the Combahee River crossing the ``Harriet Tubman Bridge,'' led the creation of the SC Microenterprise Development Act, and chaired multiple legislative subcommittees. His work consistently reflected a commitment to empowerment, equity, and cultural preservation. Reverend Hodges was a devoted husband to Patricia A. Few and a proud father to three daughters--Kendrea, Kenyatta, and Kenithea. Through faith, public service, and the arts, he uplifted generations and preserved the stories of his people with grace and purpose. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in recognizing and honoring the extraordinary life of Reverend Kenneth F. Hodges. He was more than a leader; he was a vessel of faith, a preserver of culture, and a voice for those who too often go unheard, and to me--a personal friend. South Carolina is richer for his service. May his memory inspire us to serve with the same humility, passion, and purpose that defined his life. ____________________