Hodgdon Powder Co-Founder and Reloading Legend Passes at 88

The firearms community has lost a true icon with the passing of JB Hodgdon, co-founder of Hodgdon Powder Company, a name synonymous with precision reloading and shooting sports. For reloaders and shooters who live for the perfect load and the thrill of the adventure of reloading, JB’s legacy is woven into every round crafted with Hodgdon powders. His lifelong dedication to advancing shooting sports, from handloading to supporting youth programs, has left an indelible mark on our passion. Below, we share Hodgdon’s official press release announcing JB’s passing and reflecting on his remarkable contributions to the firearms industry and American firearms culture.

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Hodgdon Powder Co-Founder and Reloading Legend Passes at 88

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.

JB Hodgdon’s impact on the firearms world is immeasurable, from the powders that fuel our favorite firearms to his tireless advocacy for the next generation of shooters. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life devoted to the craft and community we cherish. The Firearm Blog invites our readers to honor JB’s memory by sharing your own stories of how Hodgdon powders have shaped your shooting experiences in the comments below. I, for one, will be eternally grateful to him and the company for developing HP-38.