WASHINGTON, N.C. (WNCT) Washington Mayor Mac Hodges has died from complications due to COVID-19.

Beth Hodges Fickling, Mayor Hodges daughter, confirmed the information through a Facebook post.

City of Washington officials will release more information on how the City will honor and recognize the mayor. 

Greenville Mayor P.J. Connelly expressed his condolences via Facebook by saying, “He was an amazing man, community leader, and loved our Pirates.”

Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. (NC-03) released the following statement on the passing of Mayor Mac Hodges:

“Eastern North Carolina has lost a true statesman. Washington Mayor Mac Hodges passed last evening after a courageous battle with COVID-19. He has been a force for good in Beaufort County for many years and his gentle demeanor and desire for community will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, my friend. Please, everyone, pray for him and his family in this difficult and challenging time.”

Mayor Hodges was in the hospital fighting COVID-19.

According to City Manager Jonathan Russell, a memorial service for Mayor Mac Hodges is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. at Festival Park in Washington.

Russell said the City is working out logistics to set up a live stream of the service, as a large gathering is not possible due to COVID-19.

Councilman Donald Sadler said that an evening ride-by tribute is scheduled to pass Mayor Mac Hodges’ home on Saturday at 9 p.m. The event is open to everyone.

To ensure social distancing, everyone is asked to ride some type of vehicle.

Motorists are encouraged to flash their lights during the ride. No horn blowing allowed.

Lineup begins at 8 p.m. at the corner of Market and Water Streets.

City police will be on duty to direct participants from there.

Click on the Facebook post to learn more.

Stay with WNCT for more updates.