First woman mayor of Derry who treated all equally

Marlene Jefferson, who has died aged 81, made history in the years 1980 to 1981 by becoming the first woman mayor of Derry. An Ulster Unionist, she was elected to the position with the support of the SDLP.

Jefferson’s year as mayor of a predominantly nationalist city was successful, despite its being during a period of heightening tension leading up to the 1981 hunger strikes.

She was warm, friendly, honest with people and could light up a room by her presence. She was viewed as a mayor who treated all equally, and who felt a particular affinity with community groups.

She was also recognised as wanting to do what was right, and not necessarily what would be universally popular among unionist voters.

Pat Devine of the SDLP, who preceded her as mayor, believes she was a healthy influence on Derry. "She made the council a happier and more harmonious place with her personality," he said. "It's a pity there are not more people like her in politics."

Poll-topper

She had first been elected to Derry City Council in 1973. She topped the poll in the predominantly nationalist electoral area where she lived. Four years later she was re-elected, but she did not stand at the next local elections and withdrew from electoral politics.

She continued to be involved in the community, and to be enthusiastic about educating herself.

Among her involvements were the Churches’ Trust in Derry, the Post Office Users’ Council and being rector’s churchwarden in her parish. She became involved in the cross-community Women Into Irish History Group, where she revelled in discussion. Advancing years did not stop her learning about IT.

She was born Marlene Young in the Bishop Street area, the eldest daughter and second eldest child of 10 of Jim Young, an electrician from Co Donegal, and his wife Martha, known as “Dolly” (née Doherty), a Derry woman.

Responsibility

She was educated at First Derry Primary School, leaving at 14 to work in a shirt factory. As the eldest girl, she took much of the responsibility of looking after her younger siblings.

On marriage she moved to the Fountain, a traditional Protestant working class area. For a time, she ran a corner shop there. She was honoured with an MBE for her service to Derry, and the Cross of St Augustine for her service to the Church of Ireland.

It was fitting that her funeral took place in St Augustine’s Church, inside the city walls. It was also typical that a Catholic priest friend took part in the service.

Marlene Jefferson is survived by her daughters Karen, Melanie and Siobhan, son Craig and sisters Sylvia and Margaret. She was predeceased by her son Thomas and husband Jim.