In Memory of JB Hodgdon: Hunting and Shooting Icon of Hodgdon Powder

   06.17.25

In Memory of JB Hodgdon: Hunting and Shooting Icon of Hodgdon Powder

The reloading, shooting, and hunting community mourns the loss of JB Hodgdon, co-founder of Hodgdon Powder Company, whose passion for hunting, shooting, and the great outdoors helped shape the experiences of countless enthusiasts. From the backwoods to the range, JB’s work ensured that hunters and shooters had the tools they needed to pursue their adventures with confidence. His legacy, carried through Hodgdon’s industry-leading powders that span every shooting discipline, will continue to inspire. We share the full Hodgdon press release below to honor his life and contributions and extend an invitation for you to do the same in the comments below.

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In Memory of JB Hodgdon: Hunting and Shooting Icon of Hodgdon Powder

In Memory of JB Hodgdon: Hunting and Shooting Icon of Hodgdon Powder

Press Release

June 16, 2025

Hodgdon® Announces the Passing of Co-Founder JB Hodgdon

It is with profound sadness that Hodgdon shares the passing of John Brewster “JB” Hodgdon, who passed away on June 13, 2025 at the age of 88. A lifelong resident of Kansas, JB was born on October 16, 1936 to Bruce and Amy Hodgdon. JB grew up in suburban Kansas City and was extremely active in his hometown community with first responders, Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America), and the classic car community holding special places in his heart. He graduated from the University of Kansas in 1959 with a degree in Business. 

In his career, Mr. Hodgdon held many roles at the Hodgdon Powder Company. In the early days, he packaged powder at the family dining room table. He led international sales and served as the face of Hodgdon at industry trade shows. He served on the Hodgdon board in various roles, including Board Chair, for many years and was named Chairman Emeritus in 2025. With his brother Bob, JB Hodgdon continued the legacy of Hodgdon Powder Company started by his father and grew the company into the preeminent supplier of gunpowder and black powder substitutes for handloading and muzzleloading enthusiasts. Hunting trophies from around the world and his firearm collection in his home and Hodgdon offices are a testament to his passion for hunting and shooting. 

“I have been associated with the Hodgdon family and JB Hodgdon for more than five decades,” said Tom Shepherd, Chairman of the Board at Hodgdon. “JB was a first-rate owner, an incredible professional and a valued friend and counselor to work for during my career. He will be deeply missed.”

JB was a devoted annual supporter of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, a lifetime benefactor member of the NRA, a life member of the Kansas State Rifle Association and a member of the Safari Club of America, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, and the National 4-H Shooting Sports. He was deeply devoted to supporting youth involvement in the shooting sports through his work with Philmont Scout Ranch, Scouting America’s National High-Adventure Base in Cimarron, New Mexico. JB and his wife Anne, through their charitable foundation, enhanced Philmont’s ability to support our nation’s next generation of hunters and shooters with a focus on safety. JB was inducted into the National Shooting Sports Foundation Hall of Fame (2020) and a co-recipient with his brother Bob of the NRA’s Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award (2009). Additionally in 2009, JB received the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Award. 

JB is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Anne, along with his four sons, two stepchildren, four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Though JB has left us, the legacy he leaves — of family, faith, hard work, and love for shooting and the outdoors — will continue to guide all of those who knew him.

In Memory of JB Hodgdon: Hunting and Shooting Icon of Hodgdon Powder

JB Hodgdon’s love for the outdoors was more than a profession—it was a way of life that resonated with hunters, shooters, and conservationists alike. As we reflect on his legacy, AllOutdoor encourages our readers to carry forward his commitment to the wild places and traditions he championed. Whether it’s a muzzleloader hunt or a reloading session, JB’s influence will live on in every adventure we take.

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Luke Cuenco is a writer and content creator best known for his work in the outdoor and shooting sports industries. He has written and produced video for outlets such as The Firearm Blog (TFB), TFBTV, AllOutdoor, and OutdoorHub, covering topics that include new firearm releases, shooting gear, hunting equipment, and general outdoor lifestyle content. Through these platforms, Luke provides reviews, news updates, and hands-on insights, often with a focus on practical, real-world use of the products he features or objective data-based observations. Luke can be reached via his instagram @ballisticavitation