Abilene People: Myra Dean

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Today’s guest on the Abilene People Podcast is Myra Dean, a familiar face in the Abilene community with a career as diverse as it is impactful. Over the years, Myra has worked in real estate, nonprofit leadership, and business development, building a reputation for resilience and connection. She also holds a master’s degree in counseling from Hardin-Simmons University, a discipline that has shaped her ability to listen, empathize, and engage in meaningful conversations. Myra’s personal story is marked by both heartbreaking loss and inspiring perseverance. After the tragic death of her young son Rich who was killed by a drunk driver, she continued to lean on faith, family, and community, channeling her experiences into advocacy, writing, and relationship-building. Today, as she enjoys retirement, Myra is a columnist for the West Texas Tribune and maintains a wide-ranging social media presence, where she fosters conversations that often bridge divides. In this episode, Myra opens up about her concerns regarding America’s political climate. A lifelong Republican, she speaks candidly about the polarization she sees—both nationally and locally. Drawing from her writing, online platforms, and friendships, she has helped launch a discussion group that welcomes voices from across the political spectrum. The group provides a rare safe space in Abilene for those who may feel hesitant or even isolated when their perspectives diverge from the prevailing conservative majority. Throughout the conversation, Myra demonstrates what many admire about her: honesty, transparency, and courage. Whether you agree with her politically or not, her commitment to dialogue and understanding is both refreshing and challenging. This episode is a thoughtful look at how one woman continues to turn personal pain and professional experience into a platform for meaningful community conversation.