“Meeting Mrs. Atchley”
I met Mrs. Atchley at the first Olney Hamilton Hospital (OHH) Board meeting more than four years ago. She was an OHH board member, and she introduced herself to me after the meeting. At that time, I did not know the extent of her connection to the hospital. However, it was easy to see how much she loved the hospital during our first encounter. She and I made tentative plans to have lunch so I could get to know her better. Unfortunately, we did not reconnect with our busy schedules until a year or so later, but I am happy we finally had a moment to have a more in-depth conversation.
Our first official meeting was at her office—Atchley Insurance. I was surprised to learn that she was still working in her office at the age of 96. The thought of her working in her nineties embarrassed me for struggling through some workdays in my forties. We sat at the conference table in the large office and engaged in one of the most interesting conversations I have ever had. We talked about everything from her childhood to the birth of her four children. I enjoyed watching her eyes light up as she reminisced about her children and then turning to her daughter, Georgia, who was in the office with us, to say what a blessing she is. Next, we talked about her father, George B. Hamilton, the founder of OHH. She beamed with pride as she reflected on the love they both shared for the hospital. Then, she showed me a photo of her at 13-years-old standing in front of the hospital’s initial location. While showing pictures of her late husband, Glenn Atchley, she laughed and disclosed how he became connected to OHH, too. Time passed quickly, so she invited me to her home to continue the discussion another day—An invitation I gladly accepted an invitation.
When I arrived at her home, Mrs. Atchley and Georgia greeted me at the door with a warm welcome. She gave me a tour of her beautiful house that instantly felt like home. It is a feeling that is indescribable and indicative of her spirit, which is full of love, grace and joy. She allowed me to peck on her grand piano, although Georgia wasn’t too keen on my playing. And, when I mentioned that I loved how women dressed in the previous decades, she showed me some of her beautiful dresses. I had the best time.
Meeting Mrs. Atchley is a blessing I will always treasure. She is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. When I grow up, I hope I can come close to having a little of her style.
Happy 100th Birthday, Mrs. Atchley!