On May 6, 1997, Elzie Odom (1929–2025) was elected as Mayor of Arlington, succeeding Richard Greene, who had led the city for the previous decade.

After retiring as a U.S. Postal Service inspector, Odom entered public service, serving on the Planning and Zoning Commission before his 1990 election to the City Council. Urged by others to run for mayor in 1997, Odom initially hesitated but ultimately launched his campaign just before the deadline.

Mayor Elzie Odom
Photo Credit: City of Arlington

Though his main opponent, Paula Hightower, already had a head start on the campaign trail, Odom’s campaign centered on his solid character, family dedication, and professional background. His top goals targeted crime, traffic, and city-school communication, leveraging his strengths as a consensus builder and fiscal conservative.

Odom won the election with 50.19% of the vote, becoming Arlington’s first Black mayor, leading the city from 1997 to 2003. He is remembered for his achievements in transportation, infrastructure, and economic development, as well as his tireless advocacy for inclusion and equality. Always family-first, Odom was devoted to his wife of 75 years, Ruby, and their children, the Honorable Dr. Barbara Odom-Wesley and the Rev. Elzie Odom Jr.

Elzie Odom passed away on November 17, 2025, leaving a profound legacy in our community.

Arlington mayoral election historic
Fort Worth Star-Telegram – May 4, 1997
Newspapers.com

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Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 05-06-26