Irene Abernathy
It has been said that Irene Abernethy doesn't like to take "No" for an answer. Irene Abernethy grew up in Ord, Nebraska. Her father was an eye doctor and set an example for his daughter by giving of his time and money to local historical and educational foundations. Irene developed a lifelong interest in history, geography, and city government.
Irene went to Hastings College and then taught school for ten years. When she moved to Grand Island, she became actively involved in the League of Women Voters. In 1978, Irene was elected to be the first woman on the Hall County Board of Supervisors. She held that position for more than 20 years. She later was Chairperson of the Board of Supervisors and the president of the Nebraska Association for County Officials. Irene was very active in the campaign of Virginia Smith who became the first Congresswoman from the Third District of Nebraska.
On a state level, Irene served on the State Crime Commission for several years and was appointed Chairman of the Nebraska Juvenile Justice Committee. In both of these positions, she realized the importance of having a place for homeless and runaway youngsters in the Grand Island area. Because of her passion and hard work, she was able to bring the Girls and Boys Town Shelter to Grand Island.
In officially proclaiming March 28, 2004 as "Irene Abernethy Day", the mayor recognized her outstanding achievement and service to her community. He honored her lifetime of ongoing devotion to Grand Island and its citizens.
Irene Abernethy helped the people in her community. She helped women byproving that she could be an important leader in many city and county positions. She also helped the children of Grand Island by making sure we had a local branch of the Girls and Boys Town Shelter.
Grand Island Independent Article
Reflections of Irene Abernathy upon her death in August, 2012