Hotel Developer John Q. Hammons Dies at 94

Hotel developer John Q. Hammons has died, according to a statement from his company, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts. He passed away May 26 in Springfield, Missouri, at the age of 94.

“Hammons was a giant in the hospitality industry and was unwavering in his commitment to exceptional quality and service and to giving back to the community,” John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts CEO Jacqueline Dowdy said in the statement. “He was a great mentor and friend and will be missed by all who came to know him, but his legacy will live on forever.”

Over the course of his  52-year career in the lodging industry, Hammons developed 210 hotel properties in 40 states and was presented with numerous lifetime achievement awards.

“Hammons introduced the hospitality industry to signature-style, full-service hotels featuring atrium lobbies, expansive meeting and convention space, large guest rooms, podium check-in stations and complete business traveler amenities that have become staples in a guest’s exceptional experience,” according to the statement.