The family of Nancy Adrian photographed with her unveiled memorial at the Washington County Fair.

A memorial dedication was held at the Washington County Fair Monday for a woman who made a large impact on the fair and 4-H program and her community.

The fair board unveiled a memorial rock outside the round barn for Nancy Adrian, who passed away in early 2020 at the age of 63. Fair Board Secretary Tina Montz gave prepared remarks about the lives that Adrian touched as the county director for ISU Extension and Outreach for 17 years. Adrian was inducted into the Washington County 4-H Hall of Fame in 2012, was presented with the ISU County Professional Excellence in Ag and Natural Resource Program Award in 2017, and took part in civic organizations like Master Gardeners, the Brighton Community Chamber of Commerce, and much more. After Montz’ remarks, participants recited the 4-H pledge, and Adrian’s daughter and 4-H/Youth Coordinator Amy Green shared these words to the group, “Have a great fair and take time to enjoy those around you because somehow she always made time for all of us. So do that in her honor and enjoy being together. And fair board, thank you so much from our family. We will forever be grateful.”

“She made the best better” are etched above the plaque in Adrian’s honor on the memorial rock, which Montz says was her legacy every day and especially during the Washington County Fair.