Hannah McLay

Hannah H. McLay

Hannah H. McLay, of Lynchburg, died Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2010. Born June 23, 1921, in Germany, Hannah moved with her mother to New York City as a child. Her years in New York gave her a lifelong appreciation of the arts. After graduating from Cornell University, Hannah worked in Washington, D.C., developing a keen and lasting interest in politics and civic affairs. She was an enthusiastic supporter of the Democratic party and a longtime member of the League of Women Voters.

Shortly after earning a master's degree in library science, Hannah became a state library consultant for southern Virginia, a position she maintained until retirement. Hannah often expressed satisfaction that she was able to bring library stakeholders with competing viewpoints to the table, mediating comfortable outcomes for all concerned. Her interest and ability as a mediator continued after retirement, leading her to facilitate assertiveness training at the Women's Resource Center in Lynchburg. A strong proponent of women's rights, she also volunteered at the Women's Shelter in Lynchburg.

Hannah was a faithful member of Grace Memorial Episcopal Church in Lynchburg for many years. In 1998, she joined the Religious Society of Friends (Quaker) and became an active and devoted participant in the Lynchburg Worship Group.

Hannah had a lively curiosity, a fine sense of humor and a knack for bringing out the best in people. Having no family of her own, she created a loving family of friends. She will be greatly missed.

A memorial gathering is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 15, 2011, at the Lodge of the Fishermen, 4415 Boonsboro Road, Lynchburg.

Memorial donations may be made to the Lynchburg Public Library or to Roanoke Friends Meeting, P.O. Box 8023, Roanoke, VA 24014-8023.

To send condolences online, please visit www.whittenfuneral

home.com.

Whitten Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Timberlake Chapel, is serving the family.