Rufus "Bud" Myers, Jr

Rufus ‘Bud’ Myers Jr. 

Rufus "Bud" Myers Jr., a beloved Indianapolis native and dedicated public servant, passed away on February 11, 2025, at the age of 82. Known for his unwavering commitment to housing equity, social justice, and community advocacy, Bud leaves behind a legacy of transformative leadership and tireless service.

Bud served as the Executive Director of the Indianapolis Housing Agency (IHA) since 2001, a role in which he was appointed by the Mayor of Indianapolis. Under his leadership, IHA managed 13 public housing communities and administered approximately 7,400 Housing Choice Vouchers, providing vital support to thousands of Indianapolis residents. His vision and dedication reshaped housing access for vulnerable populations, setting a gold standard for public service in the field.

Before leading IHA, Bud held the position of Chief of Policy and Legislation at the Chicago Housing Authority. In this role, he was instrumental in advancing key legislation, including the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998, ensuring better opportunities for tenants and advancing housing policies that benefited communities.

Bud’s career also included over three decades of service to the United States Congress, where he served as Chief of Staff to esteemed leaders such as Representatives Andy Jacobs, Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland, Cardiss Collins, and Danny Davis. Additionally, he served as Minority Party Staff Director of the U.S. House Committee on Government Reform and Oversight. His expertise and leadership shaped legislative policies that impacted the nation and improved countless lives.

Beyond his professional work, Bud was a pillar of the Indianapolis community. He served on the boards of Keep Indianapolis Beautiful and the Indianapolis Housing Trust Fund. He was also a devoted member of 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Concerned Clergy and a lifelong member of Witherspoon Presbyterian Church.

Throughout his life, Bud was honored with numerous accolades that reflect his profound impact, including the Indianapolis Black Chamber of Commerce Sam Jones Advocacy Award, the HUD Inspector General's Recognition Award, the Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Maker Award, the Legacy Award from the Forest Manor Multi-Service Center, and the City of Indianapolis Medallion for Public Service.

Bud’s unwavering dedication to justice, equality, and community upliftment inspired all who knew him. He will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his wit, wisdom, and deep love for his family and community.

He is survived by his son, Micheal Raymond Myers (Marieta), his daughter, Mia Renee Myers Hindman (Thomas Hindman Sr.), and six cherished grandchildren: Malia Louise Myers, Mariah Virginia Myers, Micheal Raymond Myers Jr (Kristia), Thomas Elmore Hindman Jr, Taylor Myers Hindman, and Timothy Edward Hindman. He is also survived by his two sisters, Patricia Ann Myers Payne (Jerome) and Roxanne “Nikki” Myers (Richarde), and his brother, Rodric Jacob Myers (Pan). Each of them loves Bud deeply and dearly and hold his memory close.

Services to honor Bud's extraordinary life and legacy will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Witherspoon Presbyterian Church, located at 3535 West Kessler Blvd North Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46222. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and the service will follow at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Rufus and Susie Myers Children’s Library at Witherspoon Presbyterian Church in Bud’s memory.

Bud will forever be remembered as a leader, advocate, and cherished member of the Indianapolis community. His work stands as a testament to the power of service and the lasting impact of a life dedicated to others.