Anyone who’s spent time working in the professional world knows that every industry has its core set of values. That’s a given. Whether its dependability, integrity, innovation, or team work, these key tenets shape organizations in the way they operate their businesses. Of course, some values may be more emphasized than others, but there are two that have proven to be critical across the board – commitment and service. The retail fuel industry is no exception. Built on keeping people on the move – getting workers to jobs, students to school, products to market, families home again – it’s fitting that the most respected leaders in our industry are the ones who kept showing up and delivering. That spirit of dedication is exactly what defines Benny Hodges and Rex Gillis, two long-time members of the Spirit® Brand Management Committee who are stepping down after years of steadfast service and leadership.
The retail fuel industry itself has evolved dramatically over the past few decades. From the foundational role of PMOCO, to the transition from PMAA to EMA, and Spirit® Petroleum to The Spirit® Brand, change has been constant. What has remained essential, however, is strong leadership. Benny Hodges and Rex Gillis exemplify that leadership, helping guide The Spirit® Brand through innovation, modernization, and continued growth.
Benny Hodges’ career is a living history of petroleum marketing. As president and CEO of Hodges Oil Company, Inc., a third-generation petroleum business founded in 1923, Benny transformed a family operation into a modern wholesale fuel distributor while honoring its roots. After serving as a U.S. Army officer in Vietnam, Benny returned home in 1969 to keep the family business going. His service to the industry spans decades, including more than 25 years on the boards of the New Mexico Petroleum Marketers Association and the Western Petroleum Marketers Association, where he served as president, executive committee member, and legislative leader. At the national level, Benny’s roles with PMAA included chairman, Brands chairman, and executive committee member. His leadership was formally recognized in 2019 with PMAA’s Distinguished Service Award. Beyond business, Benny’s commitment extends to education, banking, environmental oversight, and community service – and to his family, with a fourth generation set to carry the Hodges legacy forward.
Rex Gillis brings an equally remarkable record of service. Serving on the Spirit® Board since 2007 – and holding the position of Treasurer throughout that entire tenure – Rex has been a steady financial and strategic anchor for the organization. With more than 53 years of experience in a family business founded by his father, Joe Gillis, Rex helped grow Dutch Oil from a small local operation into The Dutch Group, a diversified enterprise spanning fuel distribution across multiple states, convenience stores, real estate, pharmacies, and primary care clinics. His leadership includes decades of service with EMA, PMOCO, NASM, and the Mississippi Petroleum Marketers & Convenience Store Association, along with leadership roles in community development. Rex’s career reflects a forward-thinking philosophy: meeting community needs – whether fuel, healthcare, or services – wherever they may arise.
Together, Benny Hodges and Rex Gillis represent a level of leadership that is increasingly rare. Their combined service has been instrumental in shaping the growth, stability, and dependability of The Spirit® Brand. More importantly, they have modeled what commitment looks like when it’s practiced consistently, resolutely, and over the long haul. Their legacy is not just measured in titles held or boards served, but in the culture of responsibility and service they leave behind.
As The Spirit® Brand looks ahead, it does so standing on the foundation built by leaders like Benny and Rex – leaders who believe that showing up, doing the work, and serving others are actions that are never optional. It’s simply what you do, day in and day out. At Spirit®, we understand the importance of commitment and service. Contact us at 509-203-7357 or [email protected] to let us know how we can connect you with the support, services, and information that will help your business grow.