DALLAS — Former Dallas Mayor Adlene Harrison, who in 1976 became the first woman to serve as mayor of the city, has died at the age of 98.
Harrison, also celebrated as the first Jewish female mayor of Dallas, additionally served on the Dallas City Council from 1973 to 1977.
Another accolade of hers was being the first chair of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit board in 1983.
Present Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson released the statement below on Saturday, Feb. 19 following her death:
“We have lost a Dallas legend. Adlene Harrison had an amazing impact on this city. As the first woman that this city called its mayor, she made history. As a loyal, smart, and caring person, she made countless friends. And as a fearless and strong leader, she made Dallas better. We grieve with her friends and family, but we should also celebrate her inspiring 98 years of life. May God rest her spirited soul.”