Cleburne County woman turns 96, has never missed a Rotary Club meeting

CLEBURNE COUNTY, Ark. – A Cleburne County woman is celebrating 96 years of life, and she had the honor of ringing that in with the Heber Springs Rotary Club and people from her community.

Nelda Kennedy was born and raised in Cleburne County where she was able to accomplish becoming a strong leader and pioneer for many women. The Heber Springs Rotary Club has chosen not only to honor her life but also more than 30 years of never missing a meeting.

Kennedy was surprised and said she had no clue her legacy would be honored.

She was among the first women to join a Rotary Club in 1989, while also dominating a trucking business throughout Arkansas.

“I learned to shake hands with people and let them know that I stood on my own two feet,” she said.

Kennedy says she was faced with many obstacles when first joining the Rotary Club.

“It was a letdown they put you down, and they tried and tried but I was determined,” Kennedy said. It’s now 30 years later, and at the age of 96, she serves as a key member of the Rotary Club.

She’s given out scholarships and mentored many over the years.

“She’s a pillar of our community absolutely and we’re just so fortunate to have her in our Rotary Club,” Heber Springs Rotary Club Secretary Judy Crowder said.

Kennedy said she’s beyond thankful, noting that she’d be at the next meeting and plenty more to come.

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