WASHINGTON, DC (May 19, 2025) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) released the following statement on the passing of Horace Johnson, who served on the Hillsborough Board of Commissioners and was the Town of Hillsborough’s first Black mayor.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Horace Johnson, a tireless advocate and champion for our Hillsborough community. He was a longtime fighter for integration in North Carolina, and as Hillsborough’s first Black mayor, Johnson helped inspire a generation of local leaders and shaped the history of the town through efforts to bolster housing access, clean water access, local infrastructure, and so much more.
“Mayor Johnson was a trailblazer and inspiration for so many individuals across our region and North Carolina as a whole, including myself. I will miss him as an advisor, community leader, and as a friend, and I offer my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”