Hancock County remembers former tourism director Myrna Green
Hancock County citizens are mourning the passing of former tourism director Myrna Green, who died Saturday.
She was 79.
Green, who lived in Hernando after leaving her post as executive director of the Hancock County Tourism bureau from 2011 to 2023, spent the early part of her career in the nursing home industry.
She served more than a decade at the helm of Hancock County Tourism and was honored as a Top 10 Outstanding Citizen in 2022. She retired from tourism in 2023 and returned to Hernando where she grew up.
Two accomplishments that brought her great joy were saving from demolition the Historic Home and offices of the Mississippi Federation of Women’s Clubs and leading marketing and economic development campaigns to help save the Mississippi Gulf Coasts tourism industry post Hurricane Katrina.
Highlights of Myrna’s many accomplishments include:
- Helping spearhead the creation of the Visitors Center at the historic train depot in Bay St. Louis, which became a cornerstone for welcoming and educating new and returning visitors.
- Launching the beloved Snowflakes in the Bay, an annual holiday tradition that transformed Bay St. Louis into a festive wonderland, uplifting spirits and drawing visitors from near and far.
- Promoting Hancock County’s unique tourism offerings, from its burgeoning vacation rental industry to its cultural festivals and artistic heritage.
- Driving economic growth through innovative marketing initiatives, including the “Play on the Bay” guide, which highlighted local attractions, accommodations, and events.
McKenzey Northington, the current executive director of Hancock Tourism, said, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Myrna Green, the long-time Executive Director of the Hancock County Tourism Development Bureau.
“Myrna’s leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on our community and the Gulf Coast’s tourism industry.”
The Hancock Chamber of Commerce posted “We’re deeply saddened to hear of the loss of one of Hancock County’s brightest lights, Myrna Green. A veteran of the tourism industry in South Mississippi, Myrna served as the Executive Director of Hancock County Tourism from 2011 – 2023. We had the privilege of honoring her as one of Hancock County’s Top 10 Outstanding Citizens in 2022.
“We will remember Myrna as an indelible leader for Mississippi. She made her mark in government, business and the tourism industry at a time when it was rare for women to hold such positions. Her advocacy, dedication and fortitude are an example for all of us. She will be greatly missed. We extend our deepest condolences to her family and friends.”
Old Town Bay St. Louis also lauded Green, posting “The Bay St. Louis community has lost one of its most beloved advocates. Rest in peace, Myrna Green.”
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Lamar Green, three children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held Friday, December 20, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with services immediately following at Brantley Phillips Funeral Home in Hernando.
