25 LC 112 3088 House Resolution 350 By: Representatives Jones of the 143 rd , Griffin of the 149 th , Dickey of the 134 th , Paris of the 142 nd , Herring of the 145 th , and others A RESOLUTION Honoring the life and memory of Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers; and for other purposes. 1 WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens2 with the passing of Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers on November 24, 2024; and3 WHEREAS, Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers was born on October 29, 1982, a beloved son4 of Mark and Libby Rogers; and5 WHEREAS, he served his community as a visionary leader and advocate who dedicated6 innumerable hours of his time and energy toward revitalizing downtown Macon and7 transforming it into a nationally recognized and award-winning urban center; and8 WHEREAS, before turning 30, Josh was named executive director of the Historic Macon9 Foundation, where he spearheaded the revitalization of the Beall's Hill neighborhood and10 used tools such as historic tax credits and creative partnerships to renovate 40 residences; and11 WHEREAS, he further inspired civic pride for Maconites through initiatives such as the12 Magnolia Soapbox Derby and the "i love macon" campaign; and13 H. R. 350 - 1 - 25 LC 112 3088 WHEREAS, at the age of 32, he became the president and CEO of NewTown Macon, where 14 his leadership led to the establishment of Middle Georgia's first and only Community15 Development Financial Institution and downtown Macon's first Business Improvement16 District; and17 WHEREAS, during his exemplary tenure, Macon's downtown transformed into a thriving18 hub of activity filled with locally owned businesses as well as a vibrant cultural and19 economic landscape, culminating in NewTown Macon receiving the prestigious Great20 American Main Street Award in 2024; and21 WHEREAS, despite his many professional accomplishments, Josh's greatest title was22 "Dad"—he was a devoted father to his children, Jack and Ellie, as well as a loving husband23 to his wife, Meaghan, who enjoyed spending cherished time with his family; and24 WHEREAS, a compassionate and generous man, Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers will long25 be remembered for his love of family, friendship, and community and will be missed by all26 who had the great fortune of knowing him.27 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that28 the members of this body join in honoring the life and memory of Joshua "Josh" Michael29 Rogers and express their deepest and most sincere regret at his passing.30 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized31 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the32 family of Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers.33 H. R. 350 - 2 -